Saudi Pro League: Ronaldo's second hattrick in as many games guides Al-Nassr to 8-0 win over Abha
Written By Prashant Talreja
Published: Apr 03, 2024, 03:10 IST | Updated: Apr 03, 2024, 03:10 IST
Ronaldo celebrates a goal during the game. (Source: @AlNassrFC_EN)
Cristiano Ronaldo scored his 65th career hat-trick and second in as many matches as Al-Nassr thrashed Abha 8-0 in the Saudi Pro League on Tuesday (April 2).
Ronaldo converted two free kicks in the match's first 20 minutes before turning assist provider with a cutback for former Liverpool forward and Senegal international Sadio Mane.
The 39-year-old five-time Ballon d'Or winner then completed his hat-trick in the 42nd minute with a beautiful first-time chip finish of the Abha goalkeeper, bringing his tally for the season to a league-leading 29, seven clear of his nearest rival in the race for the golden boot.
Ronaldo made it five total goal contributions two minutes later when he set Saudi midfielder Abdulmajeed Al-
Sulaiheem up for a tap-in before Abdulrahman Ghareeb scored six minutes after the restart and second-half substitute Abdulaziz Al-Aliwa netted a brace with goals in the 63rd and 86th minutes to conclude the goal fest.
The 8-0 annihilation sees Al-Nassr move up to 62 points, 12 behind league leaders Al-Hilal who also secured a comprehensive 3-0 win at home to Al-Okhdood on Tuesday.