Al-Nassr suffered a dramatic setback in their quest for the Saudi Pro League title on Tuesday, drawing 1-1 with Al-Hilal in a thriller at Al-Awwal Park.
After taking the lead through Mohamed Simakan in the 37th minute, Al-Nassr goalkeeper Bento made a costly error in the dying seconds of stoppage time (90+8), failing to handle a long throw-in and scoring an own goal, delaying the league’s decisive moment.
Al-Nassr needed a win in the Riyadh derby to secure the Saudi top-flight crown for the first time in seven years. They now top the table with 83 points, with one game remaining—a final-round clash against Damac, who are fighting relegation.
Meanwhile, Al-Hilal sit second with 78 points, with two matches left against Neom and Al-Fayha.
Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo is eager to claim his first Saudi Pro League title, adding it to his collection of league trophies from England, Spain, and Italy. Ronaldo has a history of dramatic title wins, having clinched the league twice before on the final day.
Ronaldo’s memories of late-season heroics—like his decisive goal for Manchester United against Wigan in 2007 or the dramatic La Liga title win with Real Madrid against Malaga in 2012—serve as a beacon of hope for Al-Nassr. With the title still within reach, the “Worldly” side believes their captain’s never-say-die attitude can yet deliver glory.
