Al-Nassr and Al-Ettifaq Share Thrilling 2-2 Draw: Wijnaldum Shines, Ronaldo Scores with Unusual Goal
Al-Nassr and Al-Ettifaq played out a thrilling 2-2 draw in the Saudi Pro League, with Georginio Wijnaldum stealing the show with a brace while Cristiano Ronaldo scored an unusual goal. The match saw twists and turns, including VAR drama and a red card overturned. Here's a detailed recap of the high-octane clash.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Joao Felix were on target for Al-Nassr but ex-Liverpool midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum stole the limelight with an incredible brace as Al-Ettifaq held Al-Nassr to a thrilling 2-2 draw to ended their 10-game winning streak in the Saudi Pro League. Ronaldo took his career goals tally to 957 with an unusual effort as Felix's shot deflected off his back and went in.Al-Nassr were dealt an early jolt as their left full-back Saad Fahad was shown a direct red card in the fifth minute of the match for a nasty foul. The Saudi international had caught opposition's Madallah Alolayan on his calf with a poor challenge and the referee gave him the marching orders. However, the official soon checked the decision with VAR and after a prolonged check, the red card was overturned and Fahad was cautioned with a yellow instead.Al-Ettifaq then broke the deadlock somewhat against the run of play as the club captain and former Liverpool star Wijnaldum converted a brilliant finish. The Dutch midfielder received a through ball in the Al-Nassr from a quick counter-attack and made a solo run into the penalty area before launching a long-range shot which went straight into the goal. After conceding the early goal, Al-Nassr went all guns blazing but they were unable to make the final runs in the opposition's box. Ronaldo worked hard upfront but was unable to have a shot on target in the first 45 minutes.Jorge Jesus' side came out as a completely different unit after the break as they took only a minute to equalise. Former Chelsea attacker Angelo Gomes cut in from the left side and found Felix with a pass on the edge of the box and the Portuguese forward found the back of the net with a well-placed grounded shot. Seven minutes past the hour mark, Ronaldo finally got his name on the scoresheet, albeit accidentally, as Al-Nassr finally took the lead. Felix attempted a shot on goal from inside the box and the ball got deflected off Ronaldo's back and went into the net.Al-Nassr's celebrations, however, were short-lived as Wijnaldum completed his brace with yet another clinical finish to earn his side a crucial point and end Ronaldo and Co's 10-match winning streak in the Saudi Pro League.On a night when both Ronaldo and Felix had their names on the scoresheet, it was Netherlands international and ex-Reds star Wijnaldum who stole the show with two brilliant goals in each half. The Dutchman led his team from the front and inspired them to stage a late comeback and walk away with a point. Former Barcelona defender Inigo Martinez had a night to forget as he was at fault for both of Wijnaldum's goals, especially for the first one. The Spaniard was in charge of marking the Dutchman as he galloped towards the penalty area but the centre-back did very little to stop Wijnaldum from taking the shot, which resulted in the opening goal. Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting
Cristiano Ronaldo's Back-Goal and VAR Drama
In a surprising turn of events, Cristiano Ronaldo found the back of the net with an unintentional goal as Joao Felix's shot deflected off his back. Al-Nassr's early setback with Saad Fahad's red card in the 5th minute was overturned to a yellow after VAR intervention, setting the stage for an eventful encounter.
Wijnaldum's Brilliance and Impact
Former Liverpool midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum showcased his quality with two sensational goals for Al-Ettifaq, including a long-range stunner and a clinical finish. His leadership and attacking prowess led his team to secure a crucial point and end Al-Nassr's winning streak.
Ronaldo and Felix's Contributions
While Cristiano Ronaldo and Joao Felix both found the scoresheet for Al-Nassr, it was Wijnaldum's standout performance that overshadowed their efforts. Ronaldo's accidental goal and Felix's well-placed shot showcased their attacking threat, but it was Wijnaldum who emerged as the hero of the match.
Defensive Lapses and Late Drama
Former Barcelona defender Inigo Martinez had a forgettable night as his errors allowed Wijnaldum to score twice. Martinez's inability to contain Wijnaldum proved costly for Al-Nassr. The match concluded with late drama as Wijnaldum's second goal secured a dramatic draw, denying Al-Nassr their 10th consecutive win.
