Entertainment

Al-Nassr stages second-half comeback following Ronaldo substitution

Manager Ange Postecoglou replaced Cristiano Ronaldo at half-time, paving the way for a 3-2 victory over Al-Ettifaq.

Updated Aug 26, 2026 · 11:21 UTC1 reports

The short version

Al-Nassr goalkeeper Bento received a red card in the 12th minute, leaving the team down to 10 men and trailing 2-0 at half-time.
Manager Ange Postecoglou substituted Cristiano Ronaldo at the break, citing a tactical shift for the veteran forward making his first start since the World Cup.
Sadio Mane scored twice, including a stoppage-time winner, to secure Al-Nassr's third consecutive Saudi Pro League victory and move them top of the table.

Al-Nassr goalkeeper Bento was sent off 12 minutes into the match against Al-Ettifaq.[BBC News]
Cristiano Ronaldo was substituted at half-time by manager Ange Postecoglou with Al-Nassr trailing 2-0.[BBC News]
Sadio Mane and Abdulelah Al Amri scored second-half goals to draw Al-Nassr level before Mane scored the winning goal in stoppage time.[BBC News]
Postecoglou stated the tactical decision to remove Ronaldo was based on changing the team's approach and Ronaldo's recent lack of playing time.[BBC News]
The 3-2 victory placed Al-Nassr top of the Saudi Pro League standings following three straight wins.[BBC News]

It remains unconfirmed whether Ronaldo will officially retire at the end of the season, though he previously indicated this is likely his final year playing.[BBC News]