Cristiano Ronaldo and his Al Nassr teammates endured a significant setback in their pursuit of the Saudi Pro League 2025-26 crown, falling 1-2 to Al Qadsiah on Thursday.
The defeat marked the second consecutive league loss for Al Nassr players, leaving them in second position with 31 points — trailing leaders Al Hilal by four points. The two rivals are set to clash in the highly anticipated Riyadh Derby on Monday.
Julian Quinones and Nahitan Nandez found the net for Al Qadsiah, while Ronaldo netted the only goal for the hosts via a penalty kick.
Strong Start at Home for Al Nassr Players
As expected, the Al Nassr squad, donning their iconic Al Nassr jersey, began aggressively amid an energetic crowd at Al Awwal Park. However, Al Qadsiah, under Brendan Rodgers, held a firm defensive line in the opening stages, effectively neutralizing the hosts' early advances.
In the 30th minute, Quinones nearly opened the scoring with a well-timed connection on a cross, striking a half-volley that forced a sharp save from Al Nassr goalkeeper Nawaf Alaqidi.
The hosts' closest opportunity arrived in the 43rd minute when Angelo Gabriel delivered a precise cross to Kingsley Coman at the back post. The French winger opted for a volley but sent it off target from a promising position.
Goalkeeping Error Shifts Momentum
The decisive moment occurred just after halftime when Alaqidi's misjudged attempt to clear the ball backfired. Rushing out, his chip deflected off Quinones, allowing the Mexican forward to chase down the loose ball and finish into an empty net despite a desperate recovery effort.
Boosted by the lead, Al Qadsiah faced a challenge when goalkeeper Koen Casteels suffered an injury following a collision with Angelo Gabriel.
Yet, the visitors quickly extended their advantage in the 66th minute. Quinones regained possession on the flank and delivered a pass to Retegui, whose shot was parried by Alaqidi — only for Nandez to smash the loose ball into the net.
Late Penalty Offers Hope But No Equalizer
Trailing 2-0, Al Nassr players received a boost in the 80th minute after VAR spotted a handball by defender Jehad Thakri in the area. The decision sparked protests from Al Qadsiah, earning Nandez a caution.
Ronaldo confidently converted the spot-kick, sending the keeper the wrong way with his trademark run-up.
With 11 minutes of stoppage time signaled, the home supporters hoped for a dramatic comeback. However, Al Qadsiah's resolute backline held strong, securing a vital victory and dealing a blow to Al Nassr's title ambitions in their distinctive Al Nassr jersey.
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