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In an exhilarating match on Friday, Cristiano Ronaldo scored two second-half goals, including a decisive penalty, leading Al-Nassr to a 3-1 victory over rivals Al-Hilal in the ongoing battle for the Saudi Pro League title.
Despite the win, Al-Nassr currently stands third in the league with 54 points. They are three points behind second-placed Al-Hilal and seven points off the league leaders, Al-Ittihad, who are set to face Al-Ahli on Saturday.
The match opened with Al-Nassr taking the lead before halftime, thanks to a curling shot by Ali Al Hassan that beat goalkeeper Yassine Bono.
Just two minutes into the second half, Ronaldo doubled the lead with a composed finish assisted by Sadio Mane, putting Al-Nassr 2-0 ahead.
Al-Hilal responded in the 62nd minute with a header from Ali Al Bulayhi following a corner, making the game more competitive.
However, Ronaldo settled the contest in the 88th minute by converting a penalty confirmed by VAR after a handball by Mouteb Al-Harbi.
After the match, Ronaldo highlighted the importance of teamwork, stating, "The team effort was crucial to this win and me scoring is important but it's more important to win." He also added, "I work hard to help the team in the SPL and Champions League and don't concentrate on individual records," showing his focus on collective success.