Cristiano Ronaldo’s rallying speech helped Al-Nassr respond to Al-Ittihad defeat

Cristiano Ronaldo played a key role in Al-Nassr’s 2-1 victory over Abha in the Roshn Saudi League, combining his contribution on the pitch with an emotional team talk before kick-off.

The Portugal captain scored the opening goal at Al-Awwal Park on Wednesday, heading the ball into the net from a corner delivered by Brazilian midfielder Angelo.

However, behind-the-scenes footage showed that Ronaldo’s influence extended beyond his goal. Shortly before the match began, he addressed his team-mates in the dressing room and urged them to put their previous result behind them.

“Let me tell you something: the last game is over and in the past,” Ronaldo said.

His comments referred to Al-Nassr’s 2-1 defeat by Al-Ittihad on Saturday at Alinma Stadium in Jeddah, a result that came in the fifth round of the Roshn Saudi League.

Ronaldo then called for an aggressive start against Abha, highlighting the importance of the opening stages.

“Today, in the first 20 minutes, we have to go in with full strength. Make them believe that winning today is impossible. The first 20 minutes will be decisive, boys. Let’s start with great intensity today. Come on,” he added.

The message was followed by a strong opening from Al-Nassr, who secured all three points in their sixth league match of the season.

The victory took Al-Nassr’s tally to 15 points and moved them into second place in the Saudi league table. They are behind leaders Al-Hilal only on goal difference, with Al-Qadsiah third.

Ronaldo’s goal was his direct contribution to a result that allowed Al-Nassr to recover immediately from their defeat by Al-Ittihad. His pre-match speech also underlined the responsibility he has taken as captain, both in the dressing room and during matches.