Cristiano Ronaldo’s hold on the Roshn Saudi League golden boot grew that little bit stronger on Thursday, when the Al Nassr captain maintained his stellar start to the new year with a goal and assist in his side’s 2-1 win at Al Raed.
The Portuguese superstar, top scorer in last season’s RSL and in record fashion too, opened the scoring for the visitors at King Abdullah Sport City on 35 minutes, when he got the faintest of touches to Marcelo Brozovic’s in-swinging free-kick.
The goal lifted Ronaldo to 15 RSL goals this season, two ahead of nearest challenger, Al Ittihad captain Karim Benzema. The five-time Ballon d'Or has nine goals in his past eight league appearances, and four in four games in 2025.
Ronaldo, who had earlier teed up compatriot Otavio’s half volley that cannoned off the Al Raed crossbar, almost had another in first-half stoppage-time. However, home goalkeeper Meshari Sunyur blocked from close range.
Still, Al Nassr doubled their advantage two minutes into the second half, this time Ronaldo turning provider to set Nawaf Bu Washl in on the left. The full-back then finished superbly from the angle – a strike his celebrated No.7 would have been proud of.
The goal of the night, though, came in Al Raed colours. Amir Sayoud got it with 14 minutes remaining, the Algerian playmaker chopping back onto his right to curl high past Al Nassr goalkeeper Bento from just inside the penalty area.
Nevertheless, a third successive RSL victory saw Al Nassr reclaim third spot in the table, moving them to within five points of second-placed Al Ittihad and leaders Al Hilal, who are both yet to play in Matchweek 18.
Al Raed, meanwhile, stay one place above the relegation zone in 15th, level on 14 points with Al Orobah immediately below them. The Buraidah club have lost their past seven RSL matches.
