Cristiano Ronaldo edges closer to 1,000 career goals in Al-Nassr’s dominant win

Another couple of brilliant moments from Cristiano Ronaldo took centre stage, as Al-Nassr defeated Al-Orobah 3-0 in the sixth round of Saudi Pro League. Portuguese star not only found the net but also a sharp assist for his teammate Sadio Mané. This match was well indicative of the quality Ronaldo is getting closer inch by inch to that incredible 1,000 goals in his career. This Portuguese forward is still breaking records and captivating the entire world, as he has 905 goals under his belt.

Follow Playing for 90 on X (Twitter).

The Cristiano Ronaldo efect: 905 goals and counting

Even at 38, Ronaldo continues to prove that he still has so much gasoline in the tank. Of course, Saturday's win wasn't just about Al-Nassr's victory but another feat for the forward, who reached an astonishing 905 career goals. With every game played, it becomes evident that Ronaldo is surely on pace toward the 1,000-goal milestone, a number that will take his already-legendary status in the world of soccer to the very top.

Ronaldo's first in the match came in the 17 minute through a well-executed penalty. Opponent defender Talisca saw his header being blocked by the arm, and the referee had no hesitation to point to the spot. Ronaldo cool as ever, slotted it into the right corner, leaving the goalkeeper without any chance. That was his eighth in nine matches this season, continuing the kind of form that has belied predictions - from many quarters - that he was nearing the end of his career.

Beyond being a clinical finisher, constant involvement in the play was what stood out from Ronaldo. It is not just about him finding the net; he also actively contributed to the buildup, as seen in the second goal when he linked up with Mané on the left before laying a perfectly weighted pass for the Senegalese striker to finish with precision.

Sadio Mané and Stefano Pioli's Al-Nassr

The win was not about Ronaldo alone. Senegalese forward Sadio Mané shone with luminosity, demonstrating that his partnership with the Portuguese star is beginning to pay off. In fact, Mané had netted two of Al-Nassr's three goals in the match and, since Stefano Pioli took over as coach, he has entered another dimension in his game. With Pioli, Mané has four goals in five matches and three assists, a far cry from what he had been doing under former coach Luís Castro.

Mané's resurgence is but a symptom of the broader shift in the dynamics of the team under Pioli. Al-Nassr has won the last five matches, displaying a more consistent and attacking style of soccer under Pioli. This new era for the Saudi team promises a fierce title race, especially now they sit just four points behind leaders Al-Hilal.

His final goal, in the 66-minute mark, was simply the cherry on top of a dominant performance. With a pinpoint cross from Boushal, the Senegalese forward did well to finish first time and seal the win for the hosts. This goal also encapsulated Mané's revival as he found the form that once saw him as one of the best forwards in the world.

The legend that never slows down

One thing that no longer surprises the football world is how Ronaldo manages to reboot his game every single time. At 38, the Portuguese legend has proven that number is just a number when it comes to passion, professionalism, and dedication to the game. Every game that he plays in an Al-Nassr jersey feels like another opportunity for him to extend his legacy and remind the world that he's still one of the best.

The chase for 1,000 goals is not symbolic. To Ronaldo, it is the epitome of a career constructed from records and milestones. And at this rate, he edges closer towards that milestone with every passing match. Even when he is not scoring, his presence in the field serves as an inspirational force to his teammates and an intimidating threat to his rivals.

Another highlight of the night has been the chemistry Ronaldo has built with Mané. His assist for Mané's second was proof that CR7 does not always have to be the lone star; he has adapted to when he has to be a playmaker, showing tactical maturity and vision.