Al-Nassr vs Al-Riyadh: Cristiano Ronaldo Leads Early Charge in Saudi Pro League 2024-25 Clash
The Saudi Pro League 2024-25 season continues with an exciting showdown between Al-Nassr and Al-Riyadh at Al-Awwal Park. Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mane, and Joao Felix headline the action as the hosts dominated from the opening minutes, putting immense pressure on their opponents.
Al-Nassr Strike First Against Al-Riyadh
Al-Nassr took the lead inside just six minutes when Kingsley Coman combined with Joao Felix to break the deadlock. Coman’s pace down the left created the opening, and Felix got the slightest of touches to slot it home. The early goal set the tone for the night as the home fans roared in delight.
Score after 25 minutes: Al-Nassr 1-0 Al-Riyadh
Ronaldo and Mane Test Al-Riyadh’s Defense
The pressure kept piling on. Cristiano Ronaldo had a golden chance from a corner but his header drifted wide. Shortly after, Sadio Mane wasted a crucial opportunity to double the advantage. With Ronaldo and two more teammates waiting for the pass, Mane’s square ball ended up off target, sparking frustration among his fellow attackers.
Nonstop Attacking Waves from Al-Nassr
From the very first whistle, Al-Nassr dominated possession and territory. Sadio Mane released Ronaldo early in the match, only for the attempt to be flagged offside. The Portuguese star, however, remained in high spirits, smiling as the crowd cheered him on.
Cooling Break and Tactical Reset
At the 25-minute mark, the referee called for a cooling break under the Riyadh heat. The stoppage gave Al-Riyadh a chance to regroup after struggling to cope with Al-Nassr’s relentless pace. The visitors now need something special to find their way back into the game.
Al-Nassr vs Al-Riyadh: Head-to-Head Record
Al-Nassr have historically enjoyed dominance over Al-Riyadh. In their last four encounters, the Riyadh-based giants have never lost. Cristiano Ronaldo, in particular, has been decisive with key goals in previous matches.
| Date | Fixture | Result | Key Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| April 12, 2025 | Al-Nassr vs Al-Riyadh | 2-1 Al-Nassr | Ronaldo brace at Al-Awwal Park |
| Nov 8, 2024 | Al-Riyadh vs Al-Nassr | 0-1 Al-Nassr | Tight away win |
| May 23, 2024 | Al-Riyadh vs Al-Nassr | 2-2 Draw | Four-goal thriller |
| Dec 8, 2023 | Al-Nassr vs Al-Riyadh | 4-1 Al-Nassr | Convincing home performance |
What’s Next in This Saudi Pro League Thriller?
With Cristiano Ronaldo, Joao Felix, Kingsley Coman, and Sadio Mane all looking sharp, Al-Nassr are favorites to extend their lead as the match progresses. Al-Riyadh, however, will be desperate to fight back and cause an upset at Al-Awwal Park.
Stay tuned with El-Balad for the latest live updates, match highlights, and post-game analysis from the Saudi Pro League 2024-25.
