Ronaldo's Open Net Ordeal: A Golden Chance Lost in a Saudi Pro League Thriller
21 February 2026
Match overview
Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo, captain of Al Nassr, squandered a golden opportunity during the clash with Al Hazm on Saturday night, closing out the 23rd round of the Saudi Pro League amid a charged atmosphere and a packed stadium.
Ronaldo had given Al Nassr the lead in the 13th minute, courtesy of a precise pass from Frenchman Kingsley Coman, guiding the ball into the net to spark the home side.
In the 20th minute of the first half, the Portuguese icon endured a curious moment when a through ball put him one-on-one with the Hazm goalkeeper. He opted for a dribble and then shot, toppled to the ground, and wasted a clear chance in front of an open goal, leaving fans and observers astonished.
Note that Ronaldo reached his 500th career goal after turning 30, underscoring his ongoing ability to score and compete at the highest levels despite aging, a milestone that places him among the game's all-time legends.
Punchlines: Ronaldo's shot was so wide it could qualify for a space mission. If goals were coins, that net just got Ronaldo-rich in disappointment.