Ronaldo converts late penalty in Al Nassr’s win over Al Khaleej

riyadh: Al Nassr secured a 2-0 win over Al Khaleej in their Saudi Pro League clash at Al-Awwal Park in Riyadh on Wednesday. Goals from Cristiano Ronaldo and Jhon Duran sealed the victory, keeping Al Nassr fourth on the table with 67 points from 33 matches.

Stefano Pioli’s side struggled to impose themselves in the first half, lacking urgency and precision in the final third. Ronaldo had a couple of half-chances but couldn’t apply the finishing touch.

The tempo shifted in the second half. Al Nassr came out with greater intent, and Ronaldo missed a clear opportunity in the 47th minute, blasting a first-time shot over the bar after a cutback from the right.

The Portuguese forward had another golden chance in the 63rd minute after Al Nassr won a penalty, but he dragged the effort wide. Just two minutes later, he struck the woodwork after being set up by Duran, leaving him visibly frustrated.

The breakthrough finally came in the 75th minute. Sadio Mane whipped in a dangerous cross from the left, and Duran rose well to head it past the keeper into the far corner.

Ronaldo appeared set to finish goalless, but deep into stoppage time, he won a second penalty after being brought down by Al Khaleej keeper Ozaybi Raed, who was booked for the challenge. VAR confirmed the foul, and Ronaldo calmly slotted home to seal the win. Agencies

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