Cristiano Ronaldo and Al Nassr FC will have to wait until the final day of the Saudi Pro League season before knowing whether they will finally be crowned champions after a heartbreaking 98th-minute equaliser from fierce rivals Al Hilal kept the title race alive.
Al Nassr appeared destined to seal the league crown in dramatic fashion at Al-Awwal Park on Tuesday night after taking the lead in a tense Riyadh derby that carried huge title implications. Victory would have handed Ronaldo’s side an unassailable lead at the top of the table.
However, deep into stoppage time, disaster struck for the league leaders. A chaotic late moment involving goalkeeper Bento allowed Al Hilal to snatch a 1-1 draw in the 98th minute, silencing the home crowd and pushing the title battle to the final round of matches.
The result leaves Al Nassr still in control of their destiny, but with nerves now stretched to breaking point as Al Hilal continue breathing down their necks in one of the most dramatic Saudi Professional League title races in recent years.
Ronaldo, who has enjoyed a sensational campaign, was left visibly frustrated after the final whistle as his dream of lifting his first Saudi league title was cruelly delayed. The Portuguese icon has been central to Al Nassr’s title push, recently reaching another major scoring milestone while guiding the club to the summit of the standings.
Despite the setback, Al Nassr remain favourites heading into the decisive final day. The draw ensured the championship battle remains alive until the very end, with Al Hilal refusing to surrender their hopes of retaining domestic supremacy.
The rivalry between the two Riyadh giants has intensified throughout the season, with Al Hilal repeatedly proving to be the biggest obstacle standing between Ronaldo and domestic glory.
Now, the entire Middle East football scene turns its attention to the final day showdown, where Ronaldo and his teammates must hold their nerve if they are to finally claim the kingship of Saudi football.
By: Christian Kpesese
