Cristiano Ronaldo has moved within touching distance of the 1,000-goal career milestone after scoring a hat-trick in Al Nassr’s 5-3 victory over Al Kholood in the Saudi Pro League on Thursday.
The 41-year-old Portuguese forward now has a reported 985 career goals, leaving him with just 15 more to reach a landmark that would further cement his place in football history.
Ronaldo produced his decisive performance in the second half, scoring three times in the 66th, 72nd and 81st minutes to turn a fiercely contested encounter in Al Nassr’s favour.
The victory was far from straightforward for the visitors, who initially fell behind when Dominguez put Al Kholood ahead in the 16th minute.
Angelo Gabriel restored parity for Al Nassr before Sadio Mane gave the visitors the lead in the 38th minute.
However, Essomba struck to bring the hosts level again before the break, leaving both sides evenly matched at half-time.
Ronaldo subsequently took control of the contest, scoring three goals within 15 minutes to put Al Nassr firmly in command and extend his remarkable scoring record.
Dominguez converted a stoppage-time penalty in the 94th minute to complete his brace, but the late goal could not prevent Al Kholood from losing 5-3.
Beyond the three points, the result further strengthened Al Nassr’s position in the title race, lifting the club to second place, level on points with the league leaders but behind on goal difference.
Ronaldo’s latest treble has also renewed attention on his pursuit of the unprecedented 1,000-goal career target, an ambition that has remained a major talking point in world football.
Having scored prolifically for Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus and Portugal before his move to Saudi Arabia, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has continued to demonstrate his scoring ability at Al Nassr.
With 15 goals separating him from the 1,000 mark, the Portuguese captain’s next appearances will attract growing attention as he approaches one of the most remarkable individual milestones in the history of the game.
