Cristiano Ronaldo delivered a vintage performance in Portugal, scoring a hat-trick to lead Al Nassr to a commanding 4–0 win over Rio Ave in a pre-season friendly on Thursday.
The match, held at the Estádio do Algarve, showcased Ronaldo’s enduring brilliance and Al Nassr’s growing synergy ahead of the Saudi Super Cup.
Mohamed Simakan opened the scoring in the 15th minute, before Ronaldo doubled the lead just before halftime with a slick finish assisted by new signing João Félix. Despite Rio Ave’s attempts to regroup, defensive lapses proved costly. Nelson Abbey’s handball led to a missed penalty by Sadio Mané, but Ronaldo quickly made amends with a header just 16 seconds later.
The Portuguese icon completed his hat-trick from the spot after Abbey fouled Félix again, sealing the rout. With 93 goals in 105 appearances since joining Al Nassr in 2022, Ronaldo’s form remains electric. His recent two-year contract extension silences speculation about his future, reaffirming his commitment to the Saudi club.
Al Nassr will next face UD Almería on August 10, before kicking off its competitive season against Al Ittihad in the Saudi Super Cup semifinal on August 19.
