Ronaldo’s Late-Game Wonder Sends Saudi Fans into Overdrive
24 November 2025
Ronaldo’s Late Show Shocks Saudi Stars
Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo, captain of Al-Nassr, sparked a wave of admiration among former Saudi football greats after his late strike against Al-Khaleej. The 4-1 victory came in the ninth round of the Roshen Saudi Pro League and featured a goal that arrived in the dying moments of the match.
The scorer’s moment arrived in the sixth minute of stoppage time in the second half when Nawaf Boshl delivered a cross that Ronaldo deftly redirected with a brilliant backheel, leaving the goalkeeper Anthony Morris rooted to the spot.
The goal wasn’t just a pretty finish; it propelled Al-Nassr to a convincing win and reminded everyone why Ronaldo remains a marquee name in world football. The stadium erupted as the ball found its way into the net, a sight that will be replayed in highlight reels for years to come.
Reaction From Saudi Icons and A New Benchmark
Commentary from Saudi football figures poured in. Khaled Al-Sheneef, a former youth star turned pundit, called it a world-class, legendary, and historic goal, challenging anyone of Ronaldo’s age to replicate such a strike. He noted Ronaldo’s skill, balance, and mental state as evidence of a player still operating at peak levels.
Al-Attawi, a former coach, emphasized Ronaldo’s physical condition, stating that his fat percentage sits around 8% and that his biological age appears closer to 28 than 40. He argued that Ronaldo’s strict diet and discipline allow him to sustain explosive power and precision late in games.
Hamad Al-Muntashri, another Saudi great, praised Ronaldo as a role model on and off the pitch, highlighting how the Portuguese star represents the country and its culture to audiences worldwide. He described the goal as a benchmark for longevity and said Ronaldo’s impact extends beyond goals, shaping the league’s global perception.
Meanwhile, Ali Al-Muntashri reminisced about Cristiano’s historical connection to European football, recalling his move from Real Madrid to Juventus as a pivotal chapter in modern football history. He affirmed that Ronaldo’s best goals, including this late strike, contribute to a legacy that inspires players at all levels.
The piece also drew a bridge to Ronaldo’s past glory: a double bicycle kick for Real Madrid against Juventus in the Champions League, a moment some say sparked his transfer to Juventus the following summer. His enduring presence in Europe’s elite competition—now extended into the Saudi Pro League era—keeps Ronaldo at the center of football’s most memorable moments.
Ronaldo’s standing as the all-time top scorer in the Champions League, with 140 goals in 183 appearances, is often cited to contextualize his longevity and talent, even after leaving Europe’s top clubs. This latest display in Saudi Arabia is framed as both a continuation of his illustrious career and a testament to the evolving landscape of world football.
Bottom line: Ronaldo remains a global symbol of ambition and excellence, whether in Europe or the Middle East.
As the night wrapped, the conversation focused not only on the scoreline but on Ronaldo’s broader influence—how one player’s preparation, dedication, and charisma can elevate a league’s profile around the world.
Bonus takes from the experts
The consensus: Ronaldo’s goal was a rare, shimmering blend of timing, technique, and sheer will. His continued production at this stage of his career challenges conventional wisdom and fuels conversations about age, form, and the future of football in Saudi Arabia.
In the words of a certain sportsman-turned-culture-ambassador: if you ever doubted that football could feel timeless, tonight’s goal was a reminder that some players write their own clocks. And yes, the crowd will still be arguing who had the best backheel all week.
Punchline time: Ronaldo isn’t just bending time; he’s bending defenders’ ankles too. If aging is a test, he’s clearly acing it—and the rest of us are just watching the masterclass from the bleachers. Punchline 2: If goals were groceries, Ronaldo’s cart would be overflowing—and the checkout line would be the long one that never ends, because the headlines keep stocking up with every matchday miracle.