CR7 is timeless! First-half hat trick helps Al-Nassr rout Abha

Renowned forward scores three goals in the first half and assists in two more as Al-Nassr dominate Abha in a Saudi Pro League match.

Cristiano Ronaldo showcased outstanding form as Al-Nassr delivered a commanding 8-0 victory over Abha in a Saudi Pro League match on Tuesday.

Match Report

Cristiano Ronaldo delivered his 65th career hat-trick in the first half as Al-Nassr overwhelmed Abha on Tuesday evening. The contrast in quality between the two teams was evident from the start, with the visitors taking control of the game early on. Ronaldo opened the scoring with a free-kick in the 11th minute, followed by another impressive set-piece goal just 10 minutes later.

The 39-year-old then assisted Sadio Mane for a straightforward goal before completing his hat-trick with a composed finish from a swift counter-attack in the 42nd minute. Just before half-time, he provided another assist for Al-Sulaiheem to score the team's fifth goal.

Although Ronaldo was substituted at half-time, Al-Nassr continued to dominate, adding three more goals to seal an emphatic 8-0 victory. Abdulrahman Ghareeb and a brace from Abdulaziz Al-Aliwa completed the scoring, capping off a memorable performance for the away side.

The Man of The Match

Despite only playing for 45 minutes, Ronaldo's impact on the game was undeniable, earning him the title of undisputed MVP. In that relatively short time on the pitch, he managed to score three goals and provide two assists, showcasing his exceptional skills and influence on the field.

Ronaldo's contributions were particularly remarkable as he demonstrated his versatility and effectiveness in different aspects of the game. His ability to convert set-pieces, as evidenced by his two goals from free-kicks, highlighted his precision and technique. Additionally, his clinical finish for the third goal underscored his prowess as a goal scorer, even in high-pressure situations.

Beyond his scoring prowess, Ronaldo's role as a provider was equally noteworthy. His two assists demonstrated his awareness and vision, allowing his teammates to capitalize on scoring opportunities.

Ronaldo's performance exemplified a dominant display of forward play, leaving an indelible mark on the game despite his limited time on the field. His contributions not only secured a resounding victory for his team but also showcased his enduring quality and influence as one of football's greatest players.

Losers of the Game

While it was evident that Abha goalkeeper Tatarusanu was culpable for Ronaldo's first goal due to his inability to effectively block the low free-kick from the edge of the box, it's essential to acknowledge that the team as a whole struggled to compete against the superior Al-Nassr side. Tatarusanu's mistake was just one of several shortcomings exhibited by Abha throughout the match.

Despite Tatarusanu's error, the broader issue lay in Abha's collective performance, which fell short in various aspects compared to their opponents. From defensive lapses to midfield challenges and offensive struggles, Abha appeared overwhelmed and outmatched by the skill and determination of Al-Nassr.

In situations where one player commits an error leading to a goal, it's crucial to recognize the broader context of the match. In this case, while Tatarusanu's mistake may have been glaring, Abha's overall performance left much to be desired, contributing to their eventual defeat. It's clear that they faced significant challenges in coping with the strength and quality of Al-Nassr, resulting in a comprehensive victory for the latter.

Luis Castro's team will play their next match on Friday, facing Damac in another away league fixture.