Cristiano Ronaldo’s hunt for a first major trophy with Al-Nassr will have to wait, as the Saudi side fell short against Al-Ahli in a tense Saudi Super Cup final on August 23.
The night started brightly for Ronaldo and his teammates. The Portuguese star calmly slotted home a penalty, his 100th strike for the club, sending Al-Nassr fans into a frenzy.
But Al-Ahli refused to be intimidated. Franck Kessié, once of Barcelona, punished a slip in midfield to draw his side level before halftime.
After the break, Marcelo Brozović looked set to seal the win for Al-Nassr with a late goal, only for Roger Ibañez to rise at the death and snatch a dramatic equaliser for Al-Ahli.
Extra time couldn’t separate the teams, leaving the outcome to penalties. That’s where goalkeeper Édouard Mendy became the hero, saving Abdullah Al-Khaibari’s attempt. Moments later, Wenderson Galeno converted the decisive spot-kick, clinching Al-Ahli’s first Super Cup crown since 2016.
For Ronaldo, it was a bittersweet evening—hitting yet another milestone as the first player to net 100 goals for four different clubs and his national team, but still walking away without the silverware he craves in Saudi Arabia.
