The highly anticipated Saudi Pro League showdown between Al-Nassr, led by Cristiano Ronaldo, and Al-Ittihad, featuring Karim Benzema, lived up to its billing. Both football legends scored in a thrilling encounter, but it was Laurent Blanc’s Al-Ittihad who emerged victorious with a narrow 2-1 win.
A Match Rich in History
Before kickoff, the game carried an emotional undertone. A warm embrace between Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema in the tunnel reminded fans of their illustrious partnership at Real Madrid, where they shared countless victories and records. The pre-match coin toss reunited the former teammates as captains, setting the stage for a dramatic clash between two of Saudi Arabia’s top teams.
Goal Exchange: Ronaldo and Benzema
- Al-Ittihad Strikes First: In the 55th minute, Karim Benzema opened the scoring. A precise cross from Muhannad Al Shanqeeti found Benzema at the far post, where he calmly slotted it into the net.
- Quick Response from Ronaldo: Just two minutes later, in the 57th minute, Cristiano Ronaldo equalized. After Predrag Rajkovic parried a shot from Angelo, Ronaldo pounced on the rebound and drilled a clinical finish from inside the box.
Bergwijn’s Decisive Goal
When the game seemed destined for a draw, Steven Bergwijn delivered the decisive blow in added time. Receiving a pass from Mario Mitaj, the Dutchman fired a low, powerful shot from distance that nestled into the bottom corner, sealing the win for Al-Ittihad.
Impact on the League Standings
- Al-Ittihad secured their 11th consecutive victory, maintaining their position at the top of the league. Still unbeaten at home, Laurent Blanc’s side holds a comfortable lead over second-placed Al Hilal, who face Al Reed in their next fixture.
- Al-Nassr, now fourth in the standings, trail the leaders by 11 points. They were displaced by Al Qadisiya, who claimed a 3-0 victory against Al Kholood.
A Showcase for Saudi Pro League
This high-stakes duel between Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema exemplified the growing competitiveness and quality of the Saudi Pro League. The former Real Madrid icons, who defined an era in European football, continue to captivate fans and elevate the league’s global profile with their performances.
