Cristiano Ronaldo inspired Al Nassr to a stunning come-from-behind 3-1 win over Istiklol in the AFC Champions League on Monday night.
Al Nassr fell behind to a first-half goal from Istiklol’s Senin Sebai, but Ronaldo equalised for the hosts from the penalty spot in the 62nd minute.
Ronaldo then set up Al Nassr’s second goal for Talisca ten minutes later, and the Brazilian completed his brace in the 77th minute to seal the win.
The victory was Al Nassr’s second in as many games in Group E, and they now sit top of the table with six points. Istiklol are bottom of the group with no points.
Ronaldo’s performance against Istiklol was his best so far in the AFC Champions League. He had several chances to score, and he was a constant threat to the Istiklol defense.
The Portuguese superstar also showed his leadership qualities by inspiring his team to come back from behind.
Al Nassr looked to be in trouble after falling behind to Istiklol’s early goal, but Ronaldo’s penalty kick gave them a lifeline.
Ronaldo then set up Al Nassr’s second goal for Talisca, and the Brazilian completed his brace in the 88th minute to seal the win.
Al Nassr’s victory over Istiklol was a big step towards qualifying for the knockout stages of the AFC Champions League.
They will now look to maintain their winning form when they face Al Ittihad in their next match.
Ronaldo has had a major impact on Al Nassr since joining the club in the summer of 2023. He has scored seven goals in nine appearances for the club in all competitions, and he has led them to the top of the Saudi Pro League table.
The former Manchester United striker has also helped Al Nassr to make a strong start to their AFC Champions League campaign.
He has scored two goals in two appearances in the competition, and he has led his team to two wins in as many games.
Ronaldo is a global superstar, and his arrival at Al Nassr has raised the profile of the club and the Saudi Pro League.
He is also helping to attract other top players to the league, and this is raising the overall level of competition.
Al Nassr will be hoping that Ronaldo can continue his good form and help them to achieve their goals for the season.
They want to win the Saudi Pro League title and the AFC Champions League, and they believe that Ronaldo is the player who can help them to achieve these goals.
