Cristiano Ronaldo’s eagerly anticipated move to Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia generated much excitement, but unfortunately for the Portuguese superstar, his first season in the country has ended without a trophy. Al Ittihad emerged victorious in the penultimate round of the Saudi league, leaving Ronaldo and his Al Nassr teammates empty-handed. This article delves into the thrilling climax of the season, highlighting key moments and reflecting on Ronaldo’s impactful but ultimately unrewarded campaign.
The Title Decider:
In a nail-biting showdown, Al Nassr faced off against Ettifaq on Saturday, desperately seeking a victory to keep their title hopes alive. However, a 1-1 draw meant that Al Ittihad’s dominant 3-0 triumph over Al Feiha secured them the league title, ending their 14-year wait for championship glory. Despite Al Nassr’s valiant efforts throughout the season, they had to settle for a respectable second-place finish.
Ronaldo’s Impact:
Since joining Al Nassr in January, Ronaldo showcased his formidable talent, scoring an impressive 14 goals in just 16 league games. The Portuguese maestro undoubtedly made a significant contribution to his team’s campaign, but unfortunately, his individual brilliance couldn’t steer them to the ultimate prize. Despite the disappointment, Ronaldo’s arrival injected newfound energy and excitement into Saudi Arabian football.
The Final Showdown:
Al Nassr’s final league match against Ettifaq was a dramatic encounter played in the bustling city of Dammam. Although Al Nassr dominated proceedings, they fell behind just before halftime when Youssef Niakate found the net for Ettifaq. The resilient Al Nassr side fought back in the second half, with former Bayern Munich midfielder Luiz Gustavo unleashing a fierce strike to level the scoreline at 1-1 after 56 minutes. Ronaldo and his teammates pushed for a winner, but Gustavo’s late effort was disallowed for offside, leaving Al Nassr with a share of the spoils.
Al Ittihad’s Triumphant Journey:
Under the astute leadership of former Wolverhampton Wanderers and Tottenham Hotspur manager Nuno Espirito Santo, Al Ittihad showcased their strength and resilience throughout the season. They claimed the league title in convincing fashion, thanks to two goals from Brazilian forward Romarinho and an early strike from Ahmed Sharahili. The team’s remarkable achievement marks their ninth league title overall, a testament to their tenacity and consistent performances.
Acknowledgments and Reflections:
Following the culmination of the season, Santo expressed his gratitude to the players and fans for their unwavering support. He attributed the team’s success to an early goal that helped them settle into their rhythm. Despite the disappointment for Al Nassr, it is evident that everyone involved worked tirelessly, displaying remarkable dedication and determination throughout the campaign.
Conclusion:
Cristiano Ronaldo’s debut season in Saudi Arabia may have concluded without a trophy, but the impact he made on Al Nassr and Saudi Arabian football cannot be understated. His goalscoring prowess and undeniable star power added a new dimension to the league, captivating fans and raising the profile of the sport. While Al Ittihad emerged as deserving champions, the 2022-2023 Saudi Arabian league season will be remembered as a fiercely contested battle, with Ronaldo’s presence serving as a lasting testament to the league’s ambition and global appeal.
