Ronaldo brace powers Al-Nassr to Saudi Pro League title

RIYADH: Six years after their previous title win, Al-Nassr are once again champions of Saudi Arabia. A dominant 4-1 victory over Damac on the final matchday of the season secured the Saudi Pro League title for the Riyadh giants, sparking celebrations across Al-Awwal Park after one of the most dramatic title races in recent memory.

With both Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal entering the final day still capable of lifting the trophy, Riyadh was divided throughout the evening. But while Al-Hilal completed a 1-0 victory over Al-Fayha, it ultimately proved meaningless as Al-Nassr took care of business themselves.

For Damac, however, the night ended in heartbreak. Combined with Al-Riyadh’s 1-0 victory over Al-Okhdood, the defeat confirmed the team’s relegation to the Saudi First Division.

The evening kicked off with early drama from Al-Majma’ah. Sergej Milinkovic-Savic sent Sultan Mandash through on goal for Al-Hilal’s opener against Al-Fayha inside four minutes.

Moments later, relegation rivals Al-Riyadh took the lead against Al-Okhdood through Toze, leaving Damac needing at least a draw against Al-Nassr to preserve their top-flight status.

That scenario forced Al-Nassr into a patient battle against a deep Damac setup. The visitors packed the center with a defensive 5-4-1 shape, limiting clear openings during the early stages.

The first quarter-hour passed without an Al-Nassr effort on target, before Sadio Mane was denied by Damac goalkeeper Kewin in the 20th minute with a dangerous chance outside the six-yard box.

But just as they had against Al-Hilal a few weeks before, Al-Nassr found their breakthrough from a set piece after the cooling break. Joao Felix delivered a corner that Mane powered home, sending Al-Awwal Park into