Cristiano Ronaldo scores 981st career goal for Al Nassr amid Portugal suspension

Cristiano Ronaldo scored his 981st career goal to help Al Nassr secure a 3-1 victory against FK Neftchi in the AFC Champions League Elite, returning to the pitch shortly after a security alert in Riyadh.

Match Action

According to Goal.com, the match was delayed by exactly one hour on Monday after a Saudi-led coalition intercepted a ballistic missile aimed at Riyadh. Mobile warnings advised residents to stay indoors while players waited in the stadium tunnel. Once safety guarantees were provided, Ronaldo started the game and helped his team take control. Angelo Gabriel opened the scoring for Al Nassr before Ronaldo doubled the advantage in the 42nd minute by firing a powerful shot past the goalkeeper. Alisher Odilov pulled one back for Neftchi in the 51st minute. A red card for Ekromjon Alibaev in the 65th minute shifted the momentum, and Anvarjon Gofurov scored an own goal in the 78th minute to seal the win.

Portugal Controversy

The goal provides a distraction for Ronaldo, who is serving a provisional suspension issued by the Portuguese Football Federation. The forward walked out on Portugal following a dispute with coach Jorge Jesus over playing time after being left on the bench during a 2-1 UEFA Nations League win away at Norway. Ronaldo accused Jesus of an absolute breach of trust. Despite the controversy, FPF president Pedro Proenca confirmed the federation wants him back, stating there is an expressed wish from everyone to have the captain return.

Context

Football clubs in Saudi Arabia compete in both domestic competitions like the Saudi Pro League and continental tournaments such as the AFC Champions League Elite. Ronaldo continues to close in on the historic milestone of 1,000 career goals while awaiting the final verdict regarding his international ban.