Cristiano Ronaldo Scores 980th Career Goal in Al-Nassr Victory

Cristiano Ronaldo reached 980 professional goals on Friday as Al-Nassr defeated Al Diriyah 3-0, marking his return to club action following a departure from the Portugal national team.

Ronaldo opened the scoring in the 23rd minute at Al-Awwal Park by converting a rebound after goalkeeper Waleed Abdullah parried a shot from Kingsley Coman. World Soccer Talk and Al Jazeera reported that fans showed their support for the 41-year-old forward by chanting his name and displaying a banner following his recent exit from international duty.

The lead was extended before halftime when Samu Costa scored. World Soccer Talk noted the goal was a header from a Joao Felix corner, while Al Jazeera attributed the assist to a blocked shot by Coman. Former Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou, who now coaches Al-Nassr, saw his side seal the win in the 77th minute through a goal by Coman.

The victory moves Al-Nassr to 19 points in the Saudi Pro League, leaving them level with leaders Al-Qadsiah but behind on goal difference. World Soccer Talk noted that Al Hilal or Al Ittihad could potentially overtake both teams depending on the outcome of their match on Saturday.

Despite the milestone, Ronaldo remains behind in the race for the Golden Boot. According to World Soccer Talk, Ivan Toney leads the league with 11 goals, while Ronaldo has four goals in seven appearances. He is currently tied in the scoring charts with players such as Julian Quinones, George Ilenikhena, and Sergej Milinkovic-Savic.

Background

The match followed a period of tension where Ronaldo walked out of the Portugal squad after a fallout with coach Jorge Jesus. In a statement, Ronaldo alleged that Jesus had not been truthful regarding his promised playing time during the Nations League window.