Cristiano Ronaldo and Al Nassr suffered heartbreak after a dramatic late equaliser against Al Hilal.
The Saudi Pro League leaders were seconds away from winning the title.
Al Nassr eventually settled for a 1-1 draw at Al-Awwal Park in Riyadh.
The result delayed the club’s first league title since the 2018-19 season.
The latest Al Nassr title hopes setback came after goalkeeper Bento made a costly mistake in stoppage time.
His error allowed Al Hilal to escape with a crucial point.
Simakan Goal Put Ronaldo’s Team Ahead
Al Nassr controlled large parts of the high-pressure encounter against their Riyadh rivals.
Mohamed Simakan opened the scoring in the 37th minute from a set-piece move.
Marcelo Brozovic delivered the corner that created confusion inside the box.
Simakan reacted quickly and finished from close range.
Cristiano Ronaldo had a quiet night but remained heavily involved in attacking movements.
Kingsley Coman and Joao Felix also missed opportunities to extend the lead.
Ronaldo was substituted in the 83rd minute as Al Nassr tried to protect the narrow advantage.
He encouraged supporters from the bench during the closing stages.
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Bento Error Changes Everything
The dramatic moment arrived deep into second-half stoppage time.
Al Hilal launched a long throw into the Al Nassr penalty area.
Goalkeeper Bento attempted to collect the ball under pressure inside the six-yard box.
However, the Brazilian accidentally pushed the ball into his own net.
The stadium fell silent immediately after the equaliser.
Al Hilal players celebrated wildly as Al Nassr’s title party collapsed.
Television cameras later showed Ronaldo sitting with his head in his hands on the bench.
The Portuguese star appeared visibly frustrated by the late twist.
Title Race Still Alive
Despite the draw, Al Nassr remain top of the Saudi Pro League standings with 83 points.
Al Hilal sit five points behind but still have one match in hand.
Jorge Jesus’ side can still secure the title in the next round against Damac.
They may also benefit if Al Hilal fail to beat Neom in their upcoming fixture.
Cristiano Ronaldo continues to chase his first Saudi domestic league trophy since joining Al Nassr in 2023.
The 41-year-old has scored 26 league goals this season.
The latest Al Nassr title hopes drama has intensified attention on the final days of the Saudi Pro League season.
Fans now expect another tense finish in the battle for the championship.
Match Result
Al Nassr 1-1 Al Hilal
Goalscorers:
Mohamed Simakan 37’
Bento own goal 90+8’
Cristiano Ronaldo featured for 83 minutes before being substituted.
