Ronaldo scores hat-trick as Al-Nassr claim dominant win over Rio Ave | OneFootball

Cristiano Ronaldo bagged a superb hat-trick in Thursday’s pre-season friendly, as Al-Nassr claimed a dominant 4-0 victory over Portuguese club Rio Ave.

The Saudi Pro League outfit got a breakthrough in the 15th minute when Mohamed Simakan calmly slotted past goalkeeper Cezary Miszta.

Ronaldo doubled their advantage just before half-time after a brilliant one-two with Joao Felix.

Al-Nassr had an excellent opportunity to make 3-0 in the second half when Nelson Abbey handled the ball, but Sadio Mane failed to convert the penalty.

However, Ronaldo produced a towering header less than a minute later to score their third on the night.

Defender Abbey’s struggles continued as he conceded another penalty by fouling Felix in the box.

Ronaldo stepped up to take the spot kick and coolly converted to complete his hat-trick and crown a commanding display.

Al-Nassr will play Spanish side Almeria on August 10 in their final friendly, before beginning their domestic campaign with a Saudi Super Cup semi-final against Al-Ittihad.

Ronaldo, the richest footballer in the sport, has been impressive since joining the Saudi club in 2022. He has bagged 93 goals and 19 assists in 105 appearances,

There was plenty of speculation over his future at Al-Nassr after the club failed to qualify for the Club World Cup.

The 40-year-old ended the rumours by signing a new two-year deal.

Stats from Transfermarkt.