Al Nassr suffered a setback on Sunday, ending their impressive 20-game winning streak with a 3-1 defeat to Al Qadsiah.
This result leaves the Saudi Pro League leaders holding a five-point lead over second-placed Al Hilal, who have a game in hand.
Al Nassr’s remarkable streak had allowed them to establish a comfortable position atop the SPL as they aim to secure their first trophy since Cristiano Ronaldo joined the team in early 2023.
Goals from Mohammed Aboulshamat, Musab Al-Juwayr, and Julián Quiñones secured the win for Al Qadsiah, currently in fourth place in the SPL.
On April 29, Al Nassr had increased their lead over Al Hilal to eight points following a victory against Al Ahli. However, Al Hilal’s victory the following day, coupled with Al Nassr’s loss, intensifies the rivalry ahead of their crucial match on May 12.
This season has been marked by ups and downs for Ronaldo, who notably boycotted two matches earlier in the year due to what he described as unjust transfer dealings involving Al Hilal.
His protest arose after Al Hilal bolstered their lineup by acquiring former Real Madrid teammate Karim Benzema from Al Ittihad during the winter transfer window.
“It’s been a challenging season, both on and off the pitch,” Ronaldo reflected after last week’s win against Al Ahli. “We understand the strengths of other teams, but I will address everything at the end of the season.”
Ronaldo has now accumulated 970 career goals for club and country, including 25 scored this season for Al Nassr.