August 01, (THEWILL) – Football icon, Cristiano Ronaldo, etched his name in football history once again in a thrilling Arab Club Champions Cup match at the King Fahd International Stadium in Riyadh late on Monday.
His side, Al Nassr, achieved a 4-1 victory against US Monastir, with the Portuguese star’s clinical header in the 74th minute, marking his 145th headed goal. This milestone catapulted him to the top of the all-time headed goal-scoring charts, surpassing the 144 headed goals record he previously shared with Gerd Muller. The win also propelled Al Nassr to the summit of their group in the King Salman Club Cup, tied on points with Al Shabab, but ahead on goal difference.
Al Nassr began the game on the offensive, with former Inter Milan stalwart, Marcelo Brozovic, dictating play alongside ex-Lens captain, Seko Fofana. It was in the 42nd minute when the breakthrough came, as Brozovic initiated an attack that led to Abdulrahman Ghareeb setting up Anderson Talisca to open the scoring. However, an unfortunate own goal by Al Nassr’s defender, Ali Lajami, six minutes after the hour-mark, levelled the score. This set the stage for Ronaldo, as he notched his 839th career goal with a record-breaking header.
Al Nassr seized control of the game after that goal, with Abdulelah Al-Amri and Abdulaziz Saud Al Elewai scoring two goals in quick succession during the closing minutes. The victory provides some relief for Ronaldo’s side, who have faced mixed fortunes against European teams including heavy defeats against Benfica and Celta Vigo.
On the other hand, US Monastir’s struggles continue as they languish at the bottom of the group table without a single point. Al Nassr’s final group-stage match against Egyptian side, Zamalek SC, on Thursday, will determine their standing in the tournament, while Monastir will face Al Shabab in a bid to salvage their campaign.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
