Sports
Ronaldo’s Al Nassr head coach responds to critics after his brace keeps title hopes alive
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Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice to lead Al Nassr to a 2-1 comeback win over Al Riyadh, keeping their Saudi Pro League title hopes alive. Al Nassr head coach Stefano Pioli hit back at critics after the match, praising Ronaldo’s leadership and form.
Cristiano Ronaldo once again proved why he is still considered one of the best in the game as he scored twice for Al Nassr to inspire a crucial 2-1 comeback win over Al Riyadh in the Saudi Pro League on Sunday night. His performance kept the team’s title hopes alive. After the match, Al Nassr head coach Stefano Pioli responded to the Portuguese legend’s critics.
Playing at home, Al Nassr were dominant in the first half but trailed at the break after Al Riyadh took the lead just before halftime. Despite the setback, Al Nassr came out with renewed intent after the restart. In the 55th minute, Sadio Mane passed the ball perfectly across the goal, and Ronaldo was right there to tap it in easily and score the equaliser.
What followed just nine minutes later was a moment of sheer brilliance. After an initial clearance from an Al Riyadh defender, the ball fell to Ronaldo at the edge of the box. The 40-year-old fired a first-time volley without hesitation that rocketed into the top corner, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance. The strike sealed three points for the hosts.