- Al-Nassr maintained their momentum in the Saudi Pro League with a 2-0 win, continuing their strong form this season
- Cristiano Ronaldo reached yet another milestone, finding the back of the net and adding to his legendary career tally
- One of the main talking points was N’Golo Kanté, with his actions before kick-off sparking a big debate on social media
Al-Nassr continued their impressive run in the Saudi Pro League (SPL) on September 26, 2025, as they defeated Al-Ittihad 2-0 at a packed Alinma Stadium, with N’Golo Kante making headlines off the pitch.
Cristiano Ronaldo was at the heart of the action again through his trademark finishing and composure in front of goal. Despite Al-Ittihad putting up a fight, the visitors’ experience and clinical edge proved too much.
Source: Getty Images
In front of 60,000 enthusiastic fans, Al-Nassr wasted no time asserting dominance. Just nine minutes in, Sadio Mane struck a sublime volley, perfectly assisted by Kingsley Coman, according to Flashscore.
Ronaldo doubled the advantage in the 35th minute, leaping to head in his 946th career goal, cementing the Knights of Najd’s dominance in the game, as reported by Goal.
After the match, Karim Benzema admitted his team was outperformed, acknowledging the quality of their opponents. Despite his efforts to inspire a second-half comeback, Al-Ittihad were unable to respond.
Meanwhile, the loss leaves the defending champions in a difficult position, having already endured three defeats across all competitions this season. It also saw Al-Ittihad sack manager Laurent Blanc immediately.
A World Cup winner with France in 1998, Blanc has had a distinguished managerial career, including stints at Paris Saint-Germain and the French national team.
However, his sacking by Al-Ittihad marks a disappointing chapter in his coaching journey.
Source: Getty Images
N’Golo Kante seemingly snubs Ronaldo’s handshake
While the match itself was captivating, attention quickly shifted to a surprising moment before kickoff. As players made their way to the pitch, the customary tunnel handshakes took place.
Stars like Benzema, Fabinho, and Danilo Pereira all shook hands and exchanged pleasantries with Ronaldo.
However, N’Golo Kante, the former Chelsea and current France midfielder, caused a stir when he appeared to walk past Ronaldo without acknowledging him.
The video on X of the incident immediately went viral, with fans debating whether the gesture was intentional or merely a casual oversight.
Meanwhile, Ronaldo had another milestone to celebrate, netting his 946th career goal during the game, adding yet another remarkable achievement to his storied career.
As Al-Nassr enjoyed their 2-0 victory, the combination of on-field brilliance and off-field drama ensured this match would remain a talking point in the 2025 Saudi Pro League season.
According to the BBC, the win has cemented the position of Ronaldo’s side at the top of the SPL table, two points ahead of second-placed Al Qadsiah. Al-Ittihad is currently third.
Cristiano Ronaldo scores 946th career goal
In an earlier report, YEN.com.gh confirmed that Cristiano Ronaldo had now reached an incredible milestone of 946 career goals.
The Portuguese superstar continues to defy both his age and expectations, cementing his status among football’s all-time greats.
Proofreading by Bruce Douglas, copy editor at YEN.com.gh.
Source: YEN.com.gh
Source: Yen.com.gh
