Cristiano Ronaldo's championship celebration at Al-Nassr has been postponed after a catastrophic 98th-minute own goal handed Al-Hilal a dramatic 1-1 draw in a crucial Saudi Pro League encounter. Brazilian goalkeeper Bento Matheus made a shocking error when a powerful throw-in into the penalty area slipped through his grasp following miscommunication with defender Inigo Martínez, allowing the ball to roll into the net and deny the title hopefuls three vital points.
Al-Nassr's collapse in stoppage time proved particularly cruel after a dominant performance that saw them take a deserved lead through defender Mohamed Simakan's 37th-minute finish following a loose ball from a corner. The hosts had controlled much of the match despite Ronaldo's frustrating evening, which saw him substituted after 83 minutes with just one shot on target. The Portuguese forward narrowly missed a spectacular long-range effort that was brilliantly saved by Al-Hilal goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, while teammates Karim Benzema and Kingsley Coman also spurned critical chances that could have sealed victory.
Title Push Continues Despite Setback
Despite the disappointing draw, Al-Nassr maintain a commanding five-point lead atop the Saudi Pro League standings, though their opponents now have two matches remaining. The club's first championship since 2017 must now be confirmed in their upcoming fixture against Damac FC on the final matchday, denying supporters the immediate coronation many had anticipated. Ronaldo sits third in the Golden Boot race with 26 goals this season, though individual accolades have taken secondary priority to securing team honours.
The setback comes at a crucial juncture in Al-Nassr's calendar. The club faces a defining week contending in the AFC Champions League Two final against Gamba Osaka before Thursday's league decider, with the prospect of a historic double still within reach. For Ronaldo, accumulating silverware takes precedence as he approaches his personal milestone of 1,000 career goals—currently standing at 971—while preparing for Portugal's next international campaign. The coming days will determine whether this season ends in triumph or frustration.
