Cristiano Ronaldo scores sublime free-kick to spark vital Al Nassr comeback victory

Cristiano Ronaldo said he was “so happy” to score in front of Al Nassr's fans after the forward struck a free-kick to lead his side’s comeback win against Abha - and keep alive their Saudi Pro League title hopes.

The Portuguese forward, who was this week included in Roberto Martinez’s first Portugal squad, levelled the scores with 12 minutes remaining in Saturday’s night clash with Abha before Nassr went on to secure a vital 2-1 victory.

Cristiano Ronaldo, having tried a few since his move to Saudi Arabia, finally scores a free-kick for Al Nassr.Portugal captain sparks team’s comeback win. pic.twitter.com/3AUNq90CB9

The Riyadh club, second in the table, were 1-0 down and seemingly heading into the international break with a crushing defeat. However, Ronaldo’s free-kick from 25 yards – his first goal in four matches – and Anderson Talisca’s 86th-minute penalty sealed the three points. Abha played the final 10 minutes with 10 men.

With the win, Nassr moved back to within a point of leaders Al Ittihad with nine matches remaining. Earlier on Saturday, Ittihad thumped Al Fateh 5-1.

Speaking on social media after Nassr's come-from-behind win, Ronaldo tweeted: “Great to get the win and so happy to score here in our stadium with our fans.”

Great to get the win and so happy to score here in our stadium with our fans!