Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr Edge Al-Taawoun to Keep Title Race Alive
Cristiano Ronaldo played his part as Al-Nassr claimed a hard-fought 1-0 win over Al-Taawoun on Monday, a result that keeps them firmly in the Saudi Pro League title picture and within five points of leaders Al-Hilal after 17 matches.
The decisive moment arrived via an own goal from Mohammed Al Dossary, handing Al-Nassr three valuable points against one of the league’s most impressive sides this season. While Ronaldo was unable to add to his remarkable career tally, the collective performance ensured the visitors did enough on the night.
The victory carried added weight given Al-Taawoun’s position in the table. Sitting fifth and widely viewed as the surprise package of the campaign, they offered resistance but struggled to create clear openings. Sadio Mane, returning to club duty after AFCON 2025, provided energy and penetration, while goalkeeper Bento enjoyed a relatively quiet evening.
For Al-Nassr, the result reinforces their steady pursuit of the title. With the season approaching its decisive phase, dropping points against teams in form could have proven costly. Instead, the win maintains pressure on Al-Hilal and keeps momentum on their side.
The atmosphere reflected the significance of the contest, with Al-Nassr controlling possession early and pushing play into advanced areas. Ronaldo led the line with intent, linking play and occupying defenders, while Mane and the supporting cast worked the channels to stretch Al-Taawoun’s back line.
Clear chances were limited, though Al-Nassr looked the more composed side. Al-Taawoun struggled to test Bento, and their attacking efforts often broke down before reaching the final third. Any potential controversy was absent, with the game flowing steadily and few interruptions.
The goal itself came from sustained pressure, a moment of misfortune for Al Dossary that proved decisive. Al-Nassr capitalised on their territorial dominance, and though they sought a second goal, the single strike was enough to settle the contest.
After the break, Al-Taawoun attempted to raise the tempo, but Al-Nassr managed the game efficiently. Tactical discipline and controlled possession limited risks, with Ronaldo continuing to probe without finding the finishing touch.
Late on, Al-Nassr prioritised game management over ambition, closing spaces and seeing out the result with minimal alarm. The final minutes passed without drama, underlining their growing maturity in tight matches.
The win sets up another important test on Friday when Al-Nassr face Al-Kholood, with Ronaldo and his team knowing that consistency will be crucial if they are to convert pressure into silverware. As the title race tightens, results like this may prove decisive in the weeks ahead.