- Cristiano Ronaldo scored a stunning hat-trick to lead Al-Nassr to a 4-0 victory over Rio Ave in a pre-season friendly
- Ronaldo unselfishly handed a penalty to Sadio Mane, who missed, but the Portuguese forward quickly made up for it with a header seconds later
- Joao Felix impressed on his second start, registering the most chances created, most final-third passes, and most duels won in the game
Cristiano Ronaldo showed once again that age is no barrier, netting a hat-trick as Al-Nassr cruised to a 4-0 win over Portuguese side Rio Ave in a pre-season friendly at the Estadio do Algarve.
After finishing the 2024–25 Saudi Pro League season as top scorer with 25 goals, the 40-year-old forward was in lethal form again on Thursday night.
Source: Getty Images
Al-Nassr opened the scoring in the 15th minute through Mohamed Simakan, who slotted home after Joao Felix nodded the ball into his path.
Ronaldo made it 2-0 just before halftime, finishing smartly at the near post following a slick exchange with fellow Portuguese star Felix.
Mane Misses, Ronaldo Strikes Again
In the 63rd minute, Al-Nassr were awarded a penalty after Nelson Abbey handled the ball inside the area.
Ronaldo unselfishly allowed Sadio Mane to take the spot-kick, but the former Liverpool man’s weak effort was easily saved by Cezary Miszta.
Just 16 seconds later, Ronaldo made amends with a bullet header to extend the lead to 3-0.
Five minutes on, Felix was brought down in the box by Abbey, and this time Ronaldo stepped up to take the penalty himself—coolly converting to complete his hat-trick.
Data Debrief: Ronaldo and Felix Shine
Despite speculation over his future, Ronaldo’s performance was a strong statement, and Al-Nassr will be glad to have secured him on a new deal.
He registered a game-high six shots, with five on target, and an xG of 1.34 from Al-Nassr’s total 2.9.
It was also a standout performance from Joao Felix, who in only his second start created the most chances (3), delivered the most final-third passes (25), and won the most duels (12) in the match.
Source: YEN.com.gh
Source: Yen.com.gh
