Ronaldo nearly becomes the villain, Al-Nassr escapes dramatically

(Football result) - Cristiano Ronaldo endured a forgettable match, but Al-Nassr still staged an impressive comeback against Al-Fayha to stay in the Saudi Pro League title race.

Al-Nassr entered their away match against Al-Fayha under significant pressure after Al-Ahli's victory in the previous round. Ronaldo's team needed three points to maintain their advantage in the title race and quickly had a chance to take the lead early in the match. However, the on-field events unfolded in a dramatic and unpredictable manner.

In just the 8th minute, Al-Nassr was awarded a penalty following a collision in the box between Mikel Villanueva and Mohamed Simakan. Despite fierce protests from the home team, the referee stood by the initial decision. From the penalty spot, Cristiano Ronaldo disappointed once again by sending his shot wide of the left post, squandering the chance to open the scoring and showing clear frustration.

Not long after, Al-Nassr escaped another disadvantageous situation when Marcelo Brozovic avoided punishment despite a challenge deemed unsporting. However, luck did not remain on the visitors' side. Just before halftime, Fashion Sakala combined with Rakan Kaabi on the right flank before a low cross caused confusion for Abdulelah Al-Amri, resulting in an own goal that gave Al-Fayha the lead.

Entering the second half, Al-Nassr intensified their pressure but encountered Al-Fayha's disciplined defense, led by Chris Smalling. The English center-back commanded a solid backline and repeatedly neutralized dangerous attacks, making it very difficult for the visitors to find an equalizer.

The momentum only shifted in the 72nd minute when Sultan Al-Ghannam delivered a cross from the flank for Kingsley Coman to provide a precise delivery, allowing Sadio Mane to rush in and tap the ball home from close range to equalize. The goal relieved the pressure on Al-Nassr and gave them the psychological boost to push for a winner in the remaining time.

In the 80th minute, the turning point came from a corner kick. The ball fell to Joao Felix at the edge of the box, and his powerful strike hit the post before deflecting off goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera into the net. This fortunate goal completed Al-Nassr's comeback, before Abdullah Al-Hamdan sealed the victory.

Although the home team secured all three points, Ronaldo still had a forgettable performance. Besides the missed penalty, the Portuguese forward also had to leave the pitch late in the game due to signs of a hamstring issue. This injury raised concerns among fans, even as Al-Nassr managed to reclaim the top spot and keep their championship hopes alive.