🏆 Cristiano Ronaldo Leads Al Nassr to Historic Win Over Saudi League Champions
Al Nassr pulled off a stunning 2–1 victory over reigning Saudi Pro League champions Al-Ittihad in the 2025 Saudi Super Cup semifinal, despite playing with 10 men for over 65 minutes. The match, held at Hong Kong Stadium, was a fiery derby that saw Cristiano Ronaldo, João Félix, and Sadio Mané combine to deliver a performance full of grit, sacrifice, and brilliance.
This win marks a major milestone for Ronaldo, who now stands one match away from his first trophy with Al Nassr, as the team prepares for the Saudi Super Cup final on Saturday.
Match Summary: Drama, Red Cards, and Redemption
| Final Score | Al Nassr 2–1 Al-Ittihad |
| Goals | Mané (10’), Bergwijn (16’), Félix (61’) |
| Red Card | Mané (25’) |
| Venue | Hong Kong Stadium |
| Attendance | 30,653 fans |
- 10’: Marcelo Brozović threads a perfect pass to Sadio Mané, who finishes with composure to give Al Nassr an early lead.
- 16’: Steven Bergwijn equalizes for Al-Ittihad after a slick assist from Moussa Diaby.
- 25’: Mané receives a straight red card after a reckless challenge, leaving Al Nassr with 10 men.
- 61’: Cristiano Ronaldo, in a moment of selflessness, passes up a one-on-one chance to set up João Félix, who scores his first goal in Al Nassr colors.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, Al Nassr held firm, with goalkeeper Bento making crucial saves and Iñigo Martínez anchoring the defense.
Tactical Breakdown: Jorge Jesus’ Masterclass
Head coach Jorge Jesus showcased tactical brilliance by reorganizing his side after Mané’s dismissal. Al Nassr shifted to a compact 4-4-1 formation, relying on:
- Marcelo Brozović and Abdullah Alkhaibari to control midfield tempo
- Kingsley Coman and João Félix for transitional attacks
- Cristiano Ronaldo as a roaming playmaker and leader
Ronaldo’s decision to assist Félix instead of scoring himself highlighted the team’s unity and chemistry, a promising sign ahead of the final.
🔥 Benzema vs Ronaldo: A Derby of Legends
This match also featured the reunion of former Real Madrid teammates Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo, now captains of rival Saudi clubs. Benzema came close to scoring late in the first half, but was denied by Bento’s reflex save.
While Benzema led a stable Al-Ittihad side, Ronaldo’s leadership and sacrifice proved decisive, breaking a two-match losing streak against his former teammate.
Final Word: Al Nassr’s Statement Win
Al Nassr’s victory over Al-Ittihad wasn’t just a semifinal triumph—it was a statement of intent. With Ronaldo leading by example, Félix finding form, and Jorge Jesus instilling tactical discipline, the club now eyes the Saudi Super Cup title with renewed belief.
Stay tuned for full coverage of the final, tactical previews, and exclusive player insights—only here at Kariuki’s football desk.
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