Cristiano Ronaldo moved to 985 career goals after netting a rapid second-half hat-trick to guide Al-Nassr to a thrilling 5-3 win against Al-Kholood in the Saudi Pro League. The 41-year-old Portugal forward proved decisive in swinging an entertaining contest, continuing his pursuit of a major career goalscoring milestone.
The match was locked at 2-2 following strikes from Angelo Gabriel and Sadio Mane before Ronaldo seized control for Al-Nassr. The veteran striker completely transformed the contest by scoring three times in a devastating 15-minute blitz during the second half. He was aided significantly by his Portugal colleague Joao Felix, who registered an impressive four assists throughout the game, including setting up two of Ronaldo's goals.
The performance secured the 67th hat-trick of Ronaldo's career. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner has now registered seven trebles for Al-Nassr, alongside 44 for Real Madrid, 10 for Portugal, and three each with Manchester United and Juventus. His decorated career also includes winning top-flight league championships in England, Spain, Italy, and Saudi Arabia, alongside his status as the all-time leading goalscorer in men's international football.
Ronaldo is currently in his fourth year with Saudi Pro League champions Al-Nassr and has one year left on his deal, having previously suggested in August that this season was "probably" his final year playing. The victory keeps defending champions Al-Nassr in second place in the Saudi Pro League table, where they retain a game in hand over current leaders Al-Qadsiah.