Cristiano Ronaldo showed no signs of slowing down as the 39-year-old Portuguese football legend opened his 2025 account with a goal in Al Nassr’s 3-1 victory over Al Akhdoud in the Saudi Pro League.
Returning to league action after a winter break, Al Nassr stumbled early as Saviour Goodwin put the visitors ahead within six minutes. However, Sadio Mane equalised in the 29th minute, setting the stage for Ronaldo to make his mark.
Ronaldo netted his 11th league goal of the season just before half-time, converting a penalty after Al Nassr were awarded a spot kick.
The forward’s celebration, which included pointing and laughing at Al Akhdoud goalkeeper Paulo Vitor, drew attention as he proceeded to perform his trademark ‘Siu’ at the corner flag alongside teammates.
This strike marked Ronaldo’s 17th goal across all competitions this season, extending his incredible record of scoring in 24 consecutive years since 2002.
Sadio Mane sealed the victory with a late goal in the 88th minute, helping Al Nassr move up to third place in the league. However, they still trail leaders Al Ittihad by eight points and second-place Al Hilal by six.
Ronaldo’s penalty also brought him closer to his personal ambitions. The goal took his career tally to 917, with the player eyeing the milestone of 1,000 career goals before retirement. In an August interview, he expressed his determination to achieve this target despite turning 40 next month.
Currently second in the league’s scoring charts, Ronaldo is just one goal behind Aleksandar Mitrovic of Al Hilal. As the season progresses, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner aims to surpass Mitrovic and add yet another Golden Boot to his illustrious career.
Already recognised as the all-time top scorer in football history, Ronaldo first crossed the 900-goal milestone in September during a match for Portugal. With his latest achievement, he continues to solidify his legacy as one of football’s greatest players.
