RIYADH — Al Nassr's coach Luis Castro boldly asserted, "When Cristiano Ronaldo, the No. 1 in the world, is on your side, the possibilities are endless," applauding the football icon's extraordinary display and goal-scoring prowess on Friday.
Castro painted a vivid picture, likening Cristiano Ronaldo and goals to the perfect couple, stating, "Goals and Cristiano are a match made in heaven," as the football icon's dazzling brace against Al Okhdood propels his season tally to 15 goals in just 13 Saudi Professional League appearances.
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner, Ronaldo, leading the charts in the Saudi Professional League, orchestrated Al Nassr's commanding 3-0 victory at Alawwal Park in Riyadh on Friday night, with goals in the 77th and 80th minutes.
Ronaldo's first goal showcased a commanding right-footed strike from an acute angle, but it was his second that stole the spotlight.
Seizing on a rebound from opposition goalkeeper Paulo Vitor's slide-tackle outside the box, Ronaldo chested the ball down 40 yards out, delivering a sublime lob over the heads of the keeper and retreating defenders into the net.
With interlocked fingers on both hands, Castro commented, "The second goal displays perfect vision. It's an incredibly difficult feat, but Cristiano is different. He's a fantastic player, experiencing extraordinary moments this season, and it comes naturally to him. Cristiano is a joy to work with in training and on the field."
Taking to social media, Ronaldo, now boasting 18 goals from 18 Al Nassr appearances this season across all competitions, said, "Happy weekend, everyone!"
The victory saw Sami Al Najei propel the hosts in front against Al Okhdood after 13 minutes, propelling Al Nassr to 34 points from 14 Saudi Professional League games.
Second-placed Al Nassr is now just one point behind Riyadh rivals and table-toppers Al Hilal, who are set to face Al Hazem on Saturday at 6 p.m. Saudi Arabian time.
The highly anticipated Riyadh Derby between Al Hilal and Al Nassr is scheduled for Friday at 9 p.m. — SG
