Cristiano Ronaldo inspires Al Nassr with sensational brace and brilliant assist in AFC Champions League
25.10.2023 - 14:01
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
Former Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo turned back the clock on Tuesday night as he inspired Al Nassr to a 4-3 AFC Champions League victory over Philippe Coutinho's Qatari side Al Duhail.
Ronaldo is no stranger to big performances in continental competitions, his last UEFA Champions League campaign ended with six goals in seven matches and the 38-year-old was back to his old tricks in Riyadh. On 25 minutes, the Portuguese icon produced an outrageous back heel assist for Talisca to open the scoring in a tight first half.
The Saudi side improved in the second 45 and pulled away from their opponents on 56 minutes as Sadio Mane opened his account in the Champions League with a well timed finish. Not to miss out on the goals, Ronaldo made it three five minutes later.
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Picking the ball up on the right flank, Ronaldo curled home a stunning strike from outside the area to seemingly put the game beyond doubt. But, Al Duhail hit back almost immediately thanks to Ismail Mohamad's header and Almoez Ali's deflected effort.
Ronaldo then produced a brilliant volley, reminiscent of Robin Van Persie's famous Manchester United strike against Aston Villa, to put the match beyond doubt with 10 minutes to go. There was still time for Michael Olunga to add a consolation but Al Nassr held on in Saudi Arabia to maintain their 100 per cent start to the Champions League.
Al Nassr sit on the brink of qualifying for the next round. A win in their next match against Al Duhail will ensure a top two finish in their group.
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