Cristiano Ronaldo proved yet again that he is far from slowing down, as he scored a brilliant hat-trick to help Al-Nassr thrash Portuguese side Rio Ave 4–0 in a pre-season friendly on Wednesday night at the Estadio do Algarve.
The 40-year-old forward, who captains the Saudi Arabian club, was in top form as he netted three goals, showing sharpness, strength, and clinical finishing that thrilled fans in the stadium.
Ronaldo’s first goal came late in the first half, when he latched onto a clever pass from teammate João Félix and fired in at the near post. He scored his second after the break with a composed finish inside the box, and completed his hat-trick with a penalty after Sadio Mané had earlier missed from the spot.
The scoring was opened earlier in the 15th minute by Mohamed Simakan, but it was Ronaldo who stole the show with his signature “Siuuu” celebration ringing around the stadium after each goal.
The match also offered fans a first look at Ronaldo’s developing partnership with João Félix, who recently joined Al-Nassr. The two combined well throughout the game, creating several chances and showing signs of a strong attacking connection for the season ahead.
Spanish sports outlet AS.com noted that the duo “looked dangerous every time they combined,” and could become a major threat in the Saudi Pro League.
Al-Nassr will now look ahead to their Saudi Super Cup semi-final clash with rivals Al-Ittihad and an international friendly against Almería. With over 65 career hat-tricks to his name, Ronaldo once again reminded the world of his staying power.
Posting on X after the match, the football star wrote, “Keep pushing, there’s more to do.”