Sadio Mane and Cristiano Ronaldo's first goals of 2025 gave Al-Nassr a 3-1 win at home to Al-Akhdoud as both sides returned to action after the winter break in the Saudi Pro League.
Starting 13 points behind their opponents and two from safety, the visitors took the lead in the sixth minute through Nigerian winger Savior Godwin at Riyadh's Al-Awwal Park.
Former Bayern Munich and Liverpool striker Mane had a header from Sultan Al-Ghannam in the 29th minute of the match, and 13 minutes later, Al Nasr was sent off by Senegal defender Damion Lowe with a penalty. .
First SIUUU of 2025 🐐#RoshnSaudiLeague pic.twitter.com/JKWcQvXJMM
— Roshn Saudi League (@SPL_EN) January 9 2025
Mane was able to equalize two minutes into the second half with a skilful header from Al-Ghannam's cross from the right.
The result ended Al-Nassr's two-match unbeaten run in all competitions and moved them into third place, eight points behind leaders Al-Ittihad, six behind Al-Hilal, both of whom still have a game to play.
Al-Nassr returned to successful ways.
After a 2-1 defeat at Al-Ittihad on December 6, the victory was another uncomfortable night for one of the most resourceful clubs in Saudi Arabia.
After finishing one point above the relegation zone last season, there was more encouragement for their Najran-based rivals, who kept the competition in the balance until Mane's second game.
Former Manchester City defender Amy Laporte was one of the players penalized for the opener and the Spain international was lucky to stay on the pitch soon after. When he strongly condemned Godwin.
African Footballer of the Year Mane had a goal ruled out by the video assistant referee, while Ronaldo was denied by goalkeeper Paulo Vitor before half-time.
More to follow