Cristiano Ronaldo's hunt for silverware gathers pace as ex-Manchester United man keeps Al-Nassr alive

Former Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo has moved a step closer to lifting his first trophy with Al-Nassr.

The veteran forward, 37, left United last November, which eventually led to his surprise move to Saudi Arabia. Ronaldo scored 14 goals in 19 games last season but Al-Nassr ultimately finished second in the league and reached the semi-finals of both the King Cup and Super Cup, leaving the club’s marquee signing without any silverware.

However, Ronaldo moved a step closer to ending his wait for a trophy, courtesy of some late drama against Egyptian side Zamalek on Thursday in the Arab Club Champions Cup. A late Ronaldo goal helped them through to the last eight.

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Al-Nassr’s first two games saw the club draw with Al-Shabab and earn a convincing 4-1 win over Tunisan club Union Monastirienne. Heading into their final group game, Al-Nassr needed to avoid defeat in order to stop Zamalek from leapfrogging them into the knockout rounds.

The Saudi Arabian side looked to be heading out of the competition after the Egyptian club took the lead trough Ahmed Sayed’s 53rd minute penalty. However, Ronaldo scored a crucial equaliser with just three minutes remaining on the clock to keep Al-Nassr in the hunt to win the Arab Club Champions Cup.

The dramatic draw means Al-Nassr finish second in Group C, setting up a quarter-final tie with reigning champions Raja CA of Morocco, which will be played on Sunday. Ronaldo has scored twice so far in the tournament.