Cristiano Ronaldo netted two goals as Al Nassr triumphed over Al Hazem with a score of 4-0, propelling them to the top of the Saudi Pro League.
The 41-year-old Portuguese icon had previously missed two league matches and an AFC Cup fixture earlier this month, reportedly going on strike due to dissatisfaction with his club’s lack of activity during the January transfer window. He opened the scoring for the home side just 13 minutes into the match.
Kingsley Coman set up Ronaldo in a packed penalty area, allowing him to take a touch with his right foot before guiding a left-footed shot into the far corner. The goal was confirmed following a VAR check for offside, marking Ronaldo’s 500th goal since turning 30.
Coman added a second goal at the half-hour mark, created by João Felix following a quick succession of passes. Just before the halftime whistle, Ronaldo had another goal disallowed for offside.
After having another goal ruled out for offside, Brazilian forward Angelo scored the third for Al Nassr in the 77th minute with an impressive solo run from his own half.
Ronaldo finally secured his second goal of the match with 10 minutes remaining, receiving a short pass from Coman before striking an angled shot into the back of the net.
After a subsequent VAR check for offside, the goal was upheld, as Al Nassr achieved their eighth consecutive league victory, placing them one point ahead of rivals Al Hilal, who were held to a 1-1 draw at home by 10-man Al Ittihad.