Ronaldo Sparks Controversy in Al Nassr’s Final-Clinching Goal

Cristiano Ronaldo played a pivotal role in Al Nassr’s 2-1 victory over Al Ittihad in the Saudi Super Cup semifinal held in Hong Kong, China, on August 19, 2025, securing their place in the final. However, the decisive goal, which involved Ronaldo, ignited fierce debate among fans and pundits due to a controversial VAR decision.

The match saw an early breakthrough when Sadio Mane scored for Al Nassr in the 10th minute. Al Ittihad responded swiftly, with former Tottenham star Steven Bergwijn equalizing in the 16th minute. The game took a dramatic turn in the 25th minute when Mane received a straight red card, leaving Al Nassr with ten players and facing an uphill battle. The turning point came in the 61st minute when Mohamed Simakan delivered a precise pass that split Al Ittihad’s defense, allowing Ronaldo to race through. Instead of shooting, the 40-year-old superstar unselfishly passed to new signing Joao Felix, who tapped the ball into an empty net.

Controversy erupted when the linesman immediately flagged for offside, seemingly nullifying the goal. However, after a VAR review, the referee overturned the decision, ruling that Ronaldo was onside, and the goal stood, sealing Al Nassr’s 2-1 win. The call sparked outrage on social media, with fans questioning the legitimacy of the decision. One X user sarcastically commented, “Where’s the defense? Where’s the offside? What kind of league is this?” Another wrote, “The ref called offside, but VAR stepped in because it’s Ronaldo and handed Al Nassr a gift-wrapped goal.” A third added, “Ronaldo was clearly offside. He’s always at the center of controversy.”

Despite the backlash, Ronaldo celebrated the victory on his personal social media, posting a picture of his iconic celebration with the caption, “Let’s go!” At 40, the Portuguese legend remains driven, aiming to lead Al Nassr to the Saudi Super Cup title. His performance, even in a supporting role for the winning goal, underscores his enduring hunger for success.

Al Nassr’s new head coach, Jorge Jesus, who joined the club in the summer of 2025, praised Ronaldo’s influence. “Cristiano’s presence was a major reason I took this job,” Jesus said before the match. “I want to work with the players to focus on winning titles.” Ronaldo’s leadership has been a cornerstone for Al Nassr, who now await the winner of the Al Qadisiyah vs. Al Ahli Saudi semifinal in the Saudi Super Cup final on August 23, 2025.

The controversy surrounding the goal highlights the intense scrutiny Ronaldo faces, even as he continues to deliver on the pitch. As Al Nassr prepare for the final, the focus remains on whether Ronaldo can add another trophy to his illustrious career, despite the off-field debates.