Cristiano Ronaldo's hat-trick and an assist to Sadio Mane propelled Al-Nassr to a commanding 5-0 victory against Al Fateh in the Saudi Pro League's opening match of the season.
Al-Nassr, after suffering defeats in their first two games of the season, delivered a statement win led by Ronaldo and summer signing Sadio Mane. The duo combined to score five goals against Al Fateh's goalkeeper.
The partnership between Ronaldo and Mane yielded the first goal in the 27th minute. A clever backheel pass from Ronaldo set up Mane for a one-on-one opportunity, which the former Liverpool player capitalized on.
Ronaldo contributed the second goal with a header from a cross by Sultan Alganham in the 38th minute.
In the second half, Al-Nassr maintained their hunger for goals, dominating possession and pressing for an extended lead.
Ronaldo capitalized on an opportunity in the 55th minute, exploiting a gap left by the goalkeeper after being set up by Abdulrahman Ghareeb.
Ronaldo's involvement continued as he assisted Mane's second goal. He orchestrated the play, drawing defenders before passing to Ghareeb, whose cross allowed Mane to secure a brace with a header.
In added time, Ronaldo sealed his 63rd career hat-trick by tapping in a close-range shot.
Al-Nassr's victory over Al Fateh brings optimism for further improvements during the remaining transfer window.
