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Published 09:20 IST, May 28th 2024

'Next goal is Al-Hilal': Cristiano Ronaldo unfazed by historic record in SPL, eyes the Kings Cup

Cristiano Ronaldo remains unfazed by his historic SPL record, setting sights on Al-Hilal as he targets victory in the Kings Cup.

Reported by: Aryan Suraj Chadha
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Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo | Image: X/Al-Nassr

Al-Nassr wrapped up their Saudi Pro League season with a commanding 4-2 victory over Al-Ittihad. The match saw Cristiano Ronaldo shine with goals in the 45+3' and 69', while Abdulrahman Ghareeb and Meshari Al-Nemer added to the tally with goals in the 79' and 90+5' respectively. Despite efforts from Farhah Ali Saeed Al Qahtah Al Shamrani and Fabinho for Al-Ittihad, Al-Nassr's strong performance prevailed. The game also witnessed a red card for Suwailem Abdullah Awadh Salmeen Al Manhali. This win solidified Al-Nassr's second position in the league standings with 82 points.

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Cristiano Ronaldo expresses his joy after becoming SPL all-time season’s top goal scorer

Al-Nassr captain Cristiano Ronaldo said that he wasn't focused on breaking the record during the game, despite his brace against Al-Ittihad setting a new record for goals scored in the Saudi Pro League. On Monday, May 27, the Portuguese star's two goals made the difference as his team won 4-2.

In first-half injury time (45+3'), Ronaldo opened the score with a left-footed effort. In the 69th minute, he added a second goal with a header. He surpassed the previous record of 34 goals established by Abderrazak Hamdallah for Al-Nassr in the 2018–19 season by finishing the league season with 35 goals.

In light of this accomplishment, Ronaldo said (via Al-Nassr Zone on X):

“I'm very happy today. We finished the season with a victory and an important historical record for me. I wasn't waiting for the number and chasing it, but it was important to me after I got it.”

“Our next goal is the King Cup. The team will give everything it has in the final. We wait and hope that the final will be fair.”

In 44 games this season, Cristiano Ronaldo has accrued 44 goals and 13 assists. The Kings Cup of Champions final between Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr is scheduled for Friday, May 31.

Ronaldo made history by becoming the first player to win the Golden Boot in four separate leagues: Serie A, La Liga, the Premier League, and the Saudi Pro League, with his most recent brace.

Updated 09:20 IST, May 28th 2024