It was quite a historic night for Al Nassr. The Riyadh side clinched their highest-ever win as they defeated Saudi Pro League rivals Abha 0-8. Cristiano Ronaldo led the charge and stole the show with a spectacular hat-trick. The Portuguese superstar’s outstanding performance impressed so much that it has been urged that his competitive mindset and winning mentality should be ‘taught in Arab curricula.’
Saudi Arabian soccer analyst Hatem Khaymi made this monumental claim. Following the match, Khaymi praised the Knights of the Najd’s remarkable victory. He said, “The Al Nassr victory was met with the collapse of Abha. Al-Nassr improved defensively.” Then, he made a special commendation for CR7. “I hope that Ronaldo’s ambition and mentality will be taught in Arab curricula,” added Khaymi. The 39-year-old has left quite an indelible mark on the Saudi Arabian audience.
حاتم خيمي: "الاكتساح النصراوي قابله انهيار أبهاوي" والنصر تحسن دفاعيا.. وأتمنى أن يُدرّس طموح وعقلية رونالدو في المناهج العربية#كورة_روتانا #النصر_أبها pic.twitter.com/pGCvJjvTmE
— برنامج كورة (@korarotana) April 2, 2024
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Notably, this was Cristiano Ronaldo’s second consecutive hat trick, having netted three goals during Al Nassr’s 5-1 riot against Al Tai. But last night was something else, as he scored not one but two magical free kicks. He has now increased his Saudi Pro League top-scorer tally to 29. Meanwhile, goals from Sadio Mane and Abdulmajeed Al-Sulaiheem before halftime extended Al Nassr’s lead to 5-0. Later in the match, Abdulrahman Ghareeb’s strike and a brace from Abdulaziz Al Aliwa ensured Al Nassr’s commanding 8-0 victory.
Despite this, the fans were troubled by Cristiano Ronaldo’s early exit from the game after playing just the first half. Questions are looming as to whether he sustained any injury that forced Luis Castro to sub him off.
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Why did Cristiano Ronaldo leave the pitch early against Abha?
The reason Luis Castro decided not to allow Cristiano Ronaldo to score more than three goals was to ensure he received proper rest. Following last night’s fixture, the Riyadh side will face Damac on Friday and arch-rivals Al Hilal for the Saudi Super Cup clash on Monday. Avoiding potential injuries could be critical to their chances as the coach gave him a rest.
In fact, reports are suggesting that Castro may not even field his first team for the upcoming Roshn League clash on Friday. The Portuguese strategist plans to rest key players, with Cristiano Ronaldo being of particular importance, as they will be crucial for the Super Cup. While this update subsequently calms the speculations about Ronaldo being injured, it remains to see how they will fare in his absence.
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READ MORE: Cristiano Ronaldo Throws Weight Behind Saudi Arabia’s Unopposed Bid for 2034 FIFA World Cup Hosting