Cristiano Ronaldo Scores in Al Nassr Return Following Portugal Walkout

Cristiano Ronaldo netted his 980th career goal in the 23rd minute as Al Nassr defeated Al Diriyah.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored the opening goal in the 23rd minute of Al Nassr’s victory over Al Diriyah on Friday, marking his 980th career strike. The 41-year-old forward converted a rebound after Al Diriyah goalkeeper Waleed Ali failed to secure a shot from Kingsley Coman. Samú Costa doubled the lead in the 35th minute, and Coman finalized the scoring in the 77th minute to secure three points. The result moves Al Nassr level on points with Al Qadsiah at the top of the Saudi Pro League standings.

This appearance was Ronaldo’s first since leaving the Portugal national team camp last week. The veteran striker walked out after remaining an unused substitute during Portugal’s 2-1 win against Norway on Sept. 27, later alleging that coach Jorge Jesus had broken his word. Despite the international controversy, Al Nassr supporters displayed a banner reading "greatness is earned" and chanted Ronaldo’s name during the seventh minute of play.

While Ronaldo holds a record 146 goals in 234 international appearances, his future role remains uncertain following the squad walkout. Although he issued a statement confirming his continued availability for the national team, it is not yet known if he will face disciplinary action from Portugal officials. According to ESPN, the win keeps Al Nassr in title contention as other teams in the league prepare for weekend fixtures.