Senegalese forward Sadio Mané scores and assists Cristiano Ronaldo in Al Nassr lead over Al Ittihad

Sadio Mané struck the opening goal and later set up Cristiano Ronaldo as Al Nassr went into the break with the lead against Saudi Pro League champions Al Ittihad on Friday evening.

The Senegalese forward, who had already found the net earlier this season on Matchday 2, made his mark once again with a precise finish to give the visitors an early advantage in Jeddah.

Mané’s influence did not stop there; he turned provider in the second half of play so far, delivering the decisive pass that allowed Ronaldo to double the lead against Karim Benzema’s side.

Al Nassr’s attacking duo proved too sharp for the reigning champions, whose defensive line was breached twice by the visitors’ clinical efficiency.

The combination between Mané and Ronaldo—two of the league’s biggest stars—highlighted the firepower that has made Al Nassr one of the strongest contenders in this season’s title race.

The clash between Al Ittihad and Al Nassr had been billed as one of the marquee fixtures of the campaign, pitting two of Saudi football’s heavyweights against each other.

With Al Nassr yet to suffer a defeat this season, their confident first-half display put them in a commanding position to secure a significant victory away from home.

Karim Benzema, leading Al Ittihad’s line, struggled to find openings as the visitors dictated much of the attacking tempo.

The champions were forced to play catch-up after conceding the opener to Mané, and the setback grew heavier when Ronaldo clinically converted his chance following the Senegal international’s assist.

Mané’s performance underlined his growing influence at Al Nassr. Since his arrival, the 31-year-old has added pace, creativity and a cutting edge to the attack, complementing Ronaldo’s finishing prowess.

His goal and assist in such a crucial fixture have only reinforced his importance to the squad as the season progresses.

NAMORAL? VAI TOMAR NO CU

QUE CHICOTADA.

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— CR7 Brasil (@CR7Brasil) September 26, 2025

The first half closed with Al Nassr firmly in control, while Al Ittihad faced the prospect of mounting a comeback against one of the most formidable forward pairings in the division.

A win in Jeddah would mark a significant statement for Al Nassr, not only maintaining their unbeaten start but also overcoming last season’s champions on their own ground.

As the second half approaches, the question remains whether Benzema and Al Ittihad can turn the tide, or if Mané and Ronaldo will continue to steal the spotlight in a match that has already delivered moments of brilliance.