Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice to help 10-man Al-Nassr to their first ever Arab Club Champions Cup title after a 2-1 extra-time win over fellow Saudi side Al-Hilal on Saturday.
The Portugal captain, who finished as the tournament’s top scorer with six goals, was once again the star of the show for Al-Nassr.
He equalised in the second half after Michael had put Al-Hilal ahead, and then scored the winner in extra time to seal the victory.
Ronaldo’s performance was all the more impressive given that he was playing with 10 men for most of the second half and extra time after Al-Nassr defender Abdulelah Al-Amri was sent off.
The win is a major boost for Al-Nassr, who have been rebuilding their squad since the departure of coach Jorge Jesus at the end of last season.
The club have signed a number of big names in recent months, including Sadio Mane, Seko Fofana and Marcelo Brozovic, and they will be hoping that this trophy is the first of many under new coach Rudi Garcia.
Ronaldo’s performance will also be a major boost to his own confidence.
The 38-year-old has been criticized for his performances since joining Al-Nassr, but he showed on Saturday that he is still one of the best players in the world.
He will be hoping to continue his good form in the Saudi Pro League, which starts next week.
