Ronaldo brace helps Al-Nassr to victory, Al-Hilal cruise again

Cristiano Ronaldo’s second-half double helped Al-Nassr to a 3-1 Saudi Pro League win at Al-Khaleej, though leaders Al-Hilal’s fifth straight victory means they are still 11 points off the summit.

Stefano Pioli’s Al-Nassr entered Tuesday’s game having only won one of their last four in league action, and their hopes were boosted when their hosts saw Saeed Al Hamsal sent off for a handball to deny a clear goalscoring opportunity in the 34th minute.

Ronaldo was seen in animated discussion with Marcelo Brozovic after the half-time whistle, with Al-Nassr struggling to break down their stubborn opponents.

Ronaldo finally broke the deadlock with a well-taken volley in the 65th minute, but Kostas Fortounis swiftly equalised from the penalty spot following a handball from Ali Lajami.

However, Al-Nassr restored their advantage just one minute after being pegged back as Sultan Al-Ghannam rifled home, then Ronaldo added a tap-in deep into stoppage time to make the points safe.

That victory did not do much for Al-Nassr’s flagging title hopes, though, as Al-Hilal racked up another dominant win, beating Al-Wehda 4-1 at Kingdom Arena.

Jorge Jesus’ team – who thrashed Al Fateh 9-0 last time out – cruised to their fifth straight victory in the competition, with Marcos Leonardo and Malcolm scoring inside the first 11 minutes.

Malcolm added a second in the 82nd minute before Craig Goodwin denied Al-Hilal a clean sheet, but Abdullah Al Hamddan added some gloss to the scoreline in stoppage time.

Leaders Al-Hilal are three points clear of Al-Ittihad, who host Al-Shabab in their game in hand on Wednesday, and 11 ahead of third-placed Al-Nassr.