Al-Nassr Draws 1-1 in Season Opener

Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr kicked off their 2024-25 Saudi Pro League season with a disappointing 1-1 draw against Al-Raed, following a recent 4-1 loss to Al-Hilal in the Saudi Super Cup final. Ronaldo scored the opening goal in the 35th minute, marking his 50th goal in the Saudi League, but his potential second goal in the 76th minute was ruled out for offside after a VAR check. Al-Nassr dominated possession and shots but couldn't secure a win, with Al-Raed equalizing through a penalty shortly after halftime. Manager Luis Castro criticized the officiating, claiming the disallowed goal was incorrect and that a penalty should have been awarded to his team. The match ended with Al-Nassr's frustrations evident as they prepare for their next game against Al-Feiha on August 27. Ronaldo's impressive goal-scoring record continues, but the team will need to find better form to achieve their silverware ambitions this season.