There had been speculation on Al Nassr before their Saudi Pro League match against Al Ettifaq following the release of official lineups, with initial apprehension having indicated that Cristiano Ronaldo might not turn out in the game. All those suspicions were soon to be disproved when the Portuguese superstar was announced in the starting team in just hours to kick off.
The controversy led to an active discussion between fans on the Internet, yet the addition of Ronaldo was a significant advantage to Al Nassr as they strive to make the end of 2025 unforgettable. The club has been looking good after being led by a new head coach Jorge Jesus, which initially shocked many considering his success with a number of rivals Al Hilal. Al Nassr have taken a fluid and attacking approach under Jesus and this style has resulted in both consistency and entertainment.
The presence of Ronaldo is especially important considering his current shape. He is 40, and still surpassing expectations at the same time he is sharing the top-scorer title of the Saudi Pro League with Joao Felix, both with 12 goals. A strike on Al Ettifaq would make Ronaldo nine game scoring streak in a row in the league, which would further emphasize his impact this season.
It would be the first time Al Nassr and Jorge Jesus have won the league in 11 consecutive matches and will widen their gap at the top of the table to five points over Al Taawon. To Ronaldo, it may be one more final step to the first Saudi Pro League title since the club is ready to take a momentum into 2026.
