Al-Nassr FC Go Top with Dominant Win as Title Race Tightens

Al-Nassr FC reclaimed top spot in the Saudi Pro League with a commanding 5-0 victory over Al-Najma SC, keeping pressure on their closest rivals in a tightly contested title race.

For Al-Najma, the defeat marked another setback in what has been a turbulent debut campaign in the top flight. The Qassim-based side had shown signs of progress under new manager Néstor El Maestro, securing their first-ever Pro League win against Al-Kholood two weeks ago and even taking a surprise lead against Al-Ahli in Jeddah before collapsing to a 4-1 loss.

Against Al-Nassr, however, they were overwhelmed from the outset. The hosts were awarded a penalty inside five minutes, prompting early complaints about officiating. Cristiano Ronaldo stepped up and converted confidently, giving his side an early advantage that set the tone for the evening.

Midfielder Marcelo Brozović played a central role in the second goal, pushing forward with freedom as Íñigo Martínez slotted into a deeper role on the left. Brozović delivered a precise pass to Kingsley Coman, who finished in the 31st minute to double the lead.

Al-Najma’s goalkeeper Victor Braga was later forced off through injury and replaced by Waleed Al-Anzi. Before halftime, a Martínez strike from distance deflected into the net, leaving Al-Nassr 3-0 ahead at the break.

The second half followed a similar pattern. Sadio Mané added the fourth in the 52nd minute after Ronaldo chose to square the ball rather than shoot. Martínez completed the scoring in the 80th minute, heading in from a corner to seal a comprehensive win.

Manager Jorge Jesus rotated key players midway through the second half with another fixture looming in less than 72 hours against Al-Fayha.

With 11 matches remaining, Al-Nassr sit narrowly ahead of Al-Ahli, Al-Hilal and Al-Qadsiah, who remain within touching distance. The upcoming run of fixtures could prove decisive, particularly a challenging stretch that includes Al-Ettifaq and Al-Hilal.

Elsewhere, NEOM were held to a 1-1 draw by Al-Fayha, with Yassine Benzia cancelling out Alexandre Lacazette’s opener. League action resumes Thursday as Al-Fateh face Damac, Al-Hazem host Al-Ettifaq, and Al-Ahli travel to meet Al-Riyadh.