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Copyright © 2024 CGTN. 京ICP备20000184号
Disinformation report hotline: 010-85061466
Cristiano Ronaldo reacts during the Euro 2024 quarterfinal football match between Portugal and France at the Volksparkstadion in Hamburg, Germany, July 5, 2024. /CFP
Following a disappointing showing with Portugal at Euro 2024 where he failed to find the back of the net, Cristiano Ronaldo has been keeping a lower profile. He has scaled back his glamorous Instagram updates and has been spotted focusing on his fitness regime. The Al-Nassr star is now reaping the rewards as he started the new season with a goal and an assist against Al-Taawoun in the Saudi Super Cup semifinal.
The 39-year-old maestro was heavily involved from the outset, setting up Ayman Yahya for a goal in the eighth minute with a deft touch after Sadio Mane's strong run from the left flank. Despite some glimpses of goal from Al-Taawoun, Brazilian goalkeeper Bento made a couple of crucial saves in the first half to maintain the lead. Before halftime, Al-Nassr could have extended their advantage when Ronaldo found an unmarked Mane, but the former Liverpool striker was denied by Al-Taawoun's Brazilian shot-stopper, Mailson Santos.
Nevertheless, Al-Nassr fans didn't have to wait long for their second goal as Ronaldo got back in the groove with his first goal of the 2024-25 season. Yahya did the hard yards on the right wing to set up right-back Sultan Al-Ghannam, and Ronaldo finished the move with a precise strike in the 57th minute. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner came close to scoring a second goal on his return to club football, but the woodwork thwarted his efforts.
Ronaldo will face a tougher challenge as he takes on league champions Al-Hilal in the final of the Saudi Super Cup on Saturday.