Spectators were treated to a thrilling display of football on Wednesday night as Al Ittihad mounted a stunning comeback to defeat Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr 3-2 in the Saudi Pro League.
The match began with Al Nassr asserting early dominance. Sadio Mane opened the scoring in just the third minute with a precise low shot that found the back of the net. The Senegalese star was instrumental again in the 37th minute, assisting Ayman Yahya to double the lead for the hosts. Despite a VAR review for a potential handball by Mane in the buildup, the goal stood, and Al Nassr looked firmly in control.
However, the momentum shifted dramatically in the second half. Al Ittihad came out with renewed vigor, and Karim Benzema headed in a goal in the 49th minute to cut the deficit. The equalizer came from a swift counterattack, with N’Golo Kante calmly slotting the ball into Al Nassr’s net, leveling the score at 2-2.
As the clock ticked towards full time, it seemed both teams would share the points. But in stoppage time, Houssem Aouar emerged as the hero for Al Ittihad. Connecting with a cross from Moussa Diaby, the Algerian midfielder scored from close range to complete the remarkable turnaround.
The victory propels Al Ittihad to 71 points, extending their lead at the top of the table and bringing them closer to clinching the Saudi Pro League title with four matches remaining. They also have the chance to secure a domestic double, having reached the King Cup final.
For Al Nassr, currently fourth with 60 points, the defeat is a significant setback in their quest to return to the AFC Champions League elite next season. With Al Hilal sitting in second place, Al Nassr now trails by five points, and time is running out to bridge the gap.
Cristiano Ronaldo and his teammates will need to regroup quickly if they hope to salvage their campaign and secure a spot in continental competition.
