Cristiano Ronaldo marked his return to competitive action in style, scoring in Al Nassr’s emphatic 4 0 victory over Al Riyadh in the Saudi Pro League.
The 41 year old Portuguese superstar came off the bench in the 62nd minute, with Al Nassr already holding a commanding 3 0 lead. Manager Ange Postecoglou had opted to ease Ronaldo back into action following his extended break.
Ronaldo needed just 21 minutes to make his presence felt.
The forward received a low cross from Ayman Yahya, used his strength to protect the ball and create space before calmly firing a left footed finish past goalkeeper Milan Borjan.
The strike was Ronaldo’s first league goal of the 2026 27 season and the 977th of his professional career. It also extended his remarkable scoring record across 25 consecutive seasons as he continues his pursuit of 1,000 career goals.
Postecoglou explains Ronaldo’s limited minutes
Postecoglou said Ronaldo’s introduction from the bench was part of a carefully managed return to full fitness.
“Cristiano Ronaldo always wants to play, but it is important that he takes his time to return, as he was busy during the preparation period,” the Australian coach said, according to Al Riyadiah.
Postecoglou was delighted with Ronaldo’s contribution after he entered the match.
“It is wonderful for him to score a goal within 30 minutes of play. He did everything possible,” he added.
Ronaldo ultimately played around 28 minutes, giving him the opportunity to regain match fitness while still making a decisive contribution.
Al Nassr make strong start to title defence
The victory gave Al Nassr six points from their opening two Saudi Pro League matches. The club has scored seven goals and conceded none, putting it at the top of the early standings on goal difference.
Ronaldo’s return provides Postecoglou with another world class attacking option as Al Nassr looks to defend its league title.
With 977 career goals, Ronaldo is now just 23 strikes away from the extraordinary 1,000 goal milestone.
The veteran forward has also suggested that the 2026 27 campaign could be his final season, describing it as “probably my last year of football.” His contract with Al Nassr runs until June 2027, giving him another opportunity to chase one of football’s most remarkable individual records while competing for further silverware.
