KSAsportz report
RIYADH — In a decisive battle for the Saudi Pro League title, Al Hilal triumphed over Al Nassr with a score of 3-1 on Monday night, solidifying their position at the top of the league table and extending their lead to seven points. This match marks a continuing downturn for Al Nassr, who are struggling to maintain their early-season momentum.
Al Nassr’s situation worsened when goalkeeper Nawaf Al Aqidi received a red card, leaving the team to play the final 30 minutes with just ten men after an off-the-ball confrontation with Ruben Neves outside the penalty area.
The first half saw a competitive matchup, with Al Nassr gaining momentum as the game progressed. Their efforts were rewarded just three minutes before halftime when Cristiano Ronaldo netted his 15th league goal of the season, putting Al Nassr in the lead with a score of 1-0.
Notably, Ronaldo is currently leading the Saudi Pro League scoring charts, a remarkable feat in only the season’s early stages.
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Al Hilal responded with vigor in the second half, leveling the score in the 57th minute when Salem Al Dawsari converted a penalty, taking advantage of Al Nassr’s weakened defense. The match firmly tilted in Al Hilal’s favor as they capitalized on Al Nassr’s numerical disadvantage.
In the 81st minute, Mohammed Kanno scored from close range following a series of aggressive attacks inside the box, putting Al Hilal ahead for the first time. Al Hilal secured their victory deep into stoppage time when Neves scored another penalty in the 92nd minute, igniting jubilant celebrations among the home crowd.
This victory elevates Al Hilal’s points total to 38, while Al Nassr’s disappointing performance has seen the team collect just one point from their last four matches after an impressive start that included ten straight wins.