Na big joy for Al-Nassr fans as Cristiano Ronaldo finally lift the Saudi Pro League trophy for the first time. The 41-year-old superstar score two goals for their 4-1 victory over Damac on the final day of the season to see off bitter rivals Al-Hilal and win their first championship title since 2019.
Ronaldo join Al-Nassr in December 2022 after he leave Manchester United, and e shock the world. But for more than three years, the Portuguese star no win any major domestic title. The wait end on Thursday as e score im 100th goal for the league and im 129th for the club across all competitions.
The season don be one of the best. Four teams dey fight for the title—Al-Ahli with Ivan Toney goals, Al-Qadsiah backed by Aramco and coach Brendan Rodgers, Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr. But for the final stages, Al-Ahli and Al-Qadsiah slip, leaving the two Riyadh giants to battle.
The biggest game come on 12 May, wey organisers say over 180 countries watch. Al-Nassr lead 1-0 until the 97th minute, but goalkeeper Bento spill a simple catch to give own goal. The match end 1-1, keeping title race alive. But on Thursday, Al-Nassr convincingly finish the job.
This be Al-Nassr 11th title and Ronaldo eighth league championship, after wins with Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus. Professor Simon Chadwick of Emlyon Business School tell BBC say the win show that Saudi view of rapid success through domestic strategy and overseas acquisition dey correct.
But the season no come without controversy. In February, Ronaldo miss two league games, reportedly over concerns about how PIF run the club compared to Al-Hilal. Some players like Al-Ahli Toney and Brazilian winger Galeno accuse the league of favouring Ronaldo and Al-Nassr. Ronaldo reply say all this complaint no good for the league.
The Saudi sports project face questions. PIF stop funding LIV Golf, the 2029 Winter Asian Games postpone, and WTA finals likely leave after three years. The hype of big-name signings don reduce, though Al-Qadsiah pay £57m for Mateo Retegui and Al-Hilal buy Darwin Nunez for £46m. Focus now dey on younger players with sell-on value.
But for now, the yellow half of Riyadh and Ronaldo global fanbase dey celebrate. The title come as relief after Al-Nassr lose to Gamba Osaka in AFC Champions League Two final on Saturday. As Chadwick say, the clubs, league and decision-makers must capitalise on the success Ronaldo help deliver.
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