In a thrilling encounter between Al Nassr and Al Ahli in the Saudi Pro League, Cristiano Ronaldo found himself at the center of VAR controversy as his stunning strike was ruled out for offside.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Roberto Firmino Becomes VAR Victims
The Portuguese superstar attempted an audacious effort from an almost impossible angle, only for VAR to intervene, denying him what could have been a remarkable opener against their rivals.
The match saw both Ronaldo and former Liverpool star Roberto Firmino fall victim to VAR decisions, with goals disallowed for offside.
However, Ronaldo didn’t let the setback deter him. In the second half, VAR awarded a penalty to Al Nassr after Ronaldo was fouled in the box, a decision initially missed by the referee.
Seizing the opportunity, Ronaldo calmly converted from the penalty spot, securing a crucial lead for Al Nassr against Al Ahli, who currently sit third in the league standings.
Ronaldo Touches 50
This milestone strike marked Ronaldo’s 50th goal for Al Nassr since his arrival at the club in 2023, adding to his illustrious career tally of 879 goals.
Ronaldo’s move to Al Nassr signified a trend of high-profile players venturing to the Gulf state, with other notable names such as Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kante, and Neymar following suit.
Despite facing stiff competition from Al Ahli’s star-studded lineup, including Firmino, Riyad Mahrez, Allan Saint-Maximin, and Edouard Mendy, Ronaldo’s impact on the match was undeniable.
As the 39-year-old continues to showcase his prowess on the pitch, his influence in shaping the landscape of football across continents remains as significant as ever.
Despite VAR’s initial denial, Ronaldo’s resilience and determination ultimately led to a memorable moment in Al Nassr’s journey in the Saudi Pro League.