Stefano Pioli’s coaching debut kicks off with a Ronaldo goal as Al-Nassr triumphs over Al Ettifaq.
Cristiano Ronaldo found the net first as Al-Nassr clinched a 3-0 victory over Al Ettifaq on Friday. This win signified the debut match for new manager Stefano Pioli, who recently assumed the helm of the Saudi Arabian club. The Italian coach, formerly of AC Milan, joined Al-Nassr after Luis Castro’s departure.
Pioli, renowned for leading AC Milan to the 2022 Serie A title, brought his experience to Al-Nassr after their disappointing start to the season. With just one win in three Saudi Pro League games under Castro, the club decided to make a coaching change.
Ronaldo Opens the Scoring
Ronaldo, who missed Al-Nassr’s previous match due to illness, returned to action in style. The 33rd minute saw the Portuguese star successfully converting a penalty, giving Al-Nassr the lead and securing his third goal of the season. His clinical finish set the tone for the match, allowing Pioli’s side to take control.
Ronaldo’s leadership on the field remains crucial for Al-Nassr. His return to fitness following a viral infection clearly inspired the team. Al-Nassr had drawn 1-1 against Al-Shorta of Iraq in the AFC Champions League Elite earlier in the week, but Ronaldo’s return gave them the needed edge.
Second Half Seals Victory
In the second half, Salem Al-Najdi and Anderson Talisca added goals to seal the 3-0 win. Both players made significant contributions, ensuring that Pioli’s first match in charge ended on a high note. Al-Najdi’s composed finish doubled Al-Nassr’s lead, while Talisca’s goal in the final moments confirmed the team’s dominance.
This victory marked Al Ettifaq’s first loss of the season. The team, coached by Steven Gerrard, had been in impressive form and remained in third place despite the defeat. Al-Nassr’s win moved them up to fourth, just behind Ettifaq on the Saudi Pro League table.
Toney Shines for Al-Ahli
Elsewhere in Saudi football, Ivan Toney delivered an outstanding performance for Al-Ahli. The former Brentford striker netted his first goal for the Jeddah club in a 4-2 victory over Damac. Toney, who joined Al-Ahli in August, made an instant impact, assisting Gabri Veiga for the opener before scoring twice himself.
Toney’s impressive display highlighted his growing influence in the Saudi Pro League. Alongside former Liverpool star Roberto Firmino, who also found the net, Toney helped Al-Ahli rise to fifth place in the standings.
Exciting Matchups Ahead
With Al-Nassr climbing the league standings, fans are interested to see how the team will perform under Pioli’s guidance. Al-Nassr’s resurgence adds intrigue to the Saudi Pro League, with key fixtures set to determine the course of the season.
Al Hilal and Al Ittihad, currently first and second on the table, are due to meet on Saturday in what promises to be a thrilling encounter. As the Saudi Pro League heats up, attention will also turn to upcoming clashes involving top clubs like Al-Nassr, Al-Ahli, and Al Ettifaq.
Ronaldo’s Influence Continues
Ronaldo’s goal-scoring form is critical to Al-Nassr’s success. The 39-year-old remains a force to be reckoned with, proving that his talent and leadership still shine brightly. Pioli’s arrival brings renewed hope to Al-Nassr, and with Ronaldo leading the attack, the team looks set for a strong campaign.
This result is just the beginning of Pioli’s journey with the club. The Italian coach will be hoping to build on this early success as Al-Nassr aims to climb further up the Saudi Pro League table and challenge for the title.
Key Saudi Pro League Fixtures to Watch
- Al Hilal vs Al Ittihad: The top two teams meet in a crucial match that could impact the title race.
- Al-Nassr vs Al-Ahli: With both teams in strong form, this upcoming fixture is expected to be fiercely competitive.
The Saudi Pro League continues to attract international attention, with high-profile players like Ronaldo, Toney, and Firmino delivering standout performances. Pioli’s debut win will undoubtedly fuel Al-Nassr’s ambitions for the rest of the season.
