Ruben Neves Delivers Derby Magic, Tying Ronaldo's Penalty Record in Riyadh Showdown

Derby Sparks a Record-Equalling Night for Ruben Neves

In the Riyadh derby, the Portuguese midfielder Ruben Neves guided his team to a 3-1 victory over Al Nassr, moving level with Cristiano Ronaldo on a prestigious penalty milestone.

Neves opened the scoring from the penalty spot and later provided the assist for Mohammed Kanno, helping Al Hilal secure a commanding win in Round 15 of the Roshen Saudi Pro League.

That penalty was Neves's fourth successful conversion from penalties in the league, putting him on equal footing with Ronaldo.

Remarkably, Neves has converted his last four penalties his side earned in the league, with his only miss since February 8, 2025 coming against Damac.

Al Hilal have converted eight penalties in the league this season, and Neves's effort contributed to the club becoming one of the league's leading penalty-taking teams, lifting the tally to five penalties.

Bottom line: the derby was a display of precision from Neves, Ronaldo’s shadow, and a reminder that timing is everything in football.

Punchline 1: If penalties were donuts, Neves just ate the whole box.

Punchline 2: Ronaldo may still lead in name, but Neves is leading in the scorecard.