Following a somewhat disappointing start to the season, Al Nassr made a resounding comeback during their third Saudi Pro League game. They secured an impressive 5-0 victory over Al Fateh, and the spotlight was undeniably on Cristiano Ronaldo and his stunning hattrick. Yet, bafflingly, the league chose not to honor him with an award despite his triumphant performance. Instead, this recognition was directed towards his $ 27,000,000 rated teammate.
This isn’t the first time that CR7 has faced disappointment despite his remarkable contributions. In a previous instance, during the Arab Champions Cup, Ronaldo’s efforts led his team to victory. However, he was passed over for the Man of the Match award for Sergej Milinkovic-Savic.
Cristiano Ronaldo again overlooked for an ace accolade
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On Match Day 3, Al-Nassr tasted victory and secured their first three points of the 2023 Saudi Pro League season. However, amidst the celebration, a surprising decision was made. Despite Ronaldo’s exceptional performance, his $27 million rated teammate Sadio Mane managed to overshadow him and grab the ‘Goal of Round 3’ award.
🌟 ســاديــو مــانـــي 🌟
الفائز بـ #هدف_الجولة الـ3️⃣ 👏#دوري_روشن_السعودي #yallaRSL https://t.co/J6gu86uYOg pic.twitter.com/rgLCn5zlV6
— دوري روشن السعودي (@SPL) August 27, 2023
This unexpected decision came after five time ballon d’or winner had exhibited brilliance on the field, including providing an exquisite backheel pass that resulted in a goal by Sadio Mane.
Ronaldo’s hattrick, coupled with a remarkable brace by new signing Sadio Mane, secured the victory and propelled Al-Nassr to 10th place in the Saudi Pro League standings. This triumph marked a positive turnaround for Al-Nassr. As they had previously struggled with two losses in their initial fixtures against Al Ettifaq and Al Taawoun.
The road ahead for Al Nassr
This Tuesday, Al Nassr faces off against Al Shabab at Al-Awwal Park in the Saudi Pro League. These two Riyadh-based rivals have locked horns 55 times across various competitions. Al Shabab holds a distinct advantage with 24 wins compared to the hosts’ 17 victories, while 14 matches have ended in draws.
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Al Shabab, however, has been grappling with scoring woes this season, managing only six goals in eight competitive games. In contrast, Al-Nassr seems to have rediscovered their scoring touch, netting nine goals in their last two outings.
After winning their first league match on Friday, Al Nassr will aim to continue this momentum in the upcoming game. They’ve emerged victorious in their last two home meetings against the visitors with a strong 7-4 aggregate score.
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With the intriguing dynamics, can Ronaldo and his teammates ascend the league table following their spectacular victory? What do you think? Let us know in comments!