Cristiano Ronaldo put international controversy behind him on Friday with scoring the opening goal in Al-Nassr’s 3-0 victory over Diriyah in the Saudi Pro League.
The win moves defending champions Al-Nassr level on points with league leaders Al-Qadsiah after eight rounds with trailing only on goal difference.
Ronaldo returned to club action following a fallout during the international break where the 41-year-old left the Portugal national team squad over play-time disagreements with newly appointed coach Jorge Jesus.
Midway through the first half, Ronaldo pounced on a rebound after Kingsley Coman’s shot was blocked by goalkeeper Waleed Abdullah. The goal marked the 980th of Ronaldo's professional career.
Samu Costa doubled the lead for Al-Nassr now managed by former Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou just before halftime. Coman sealed the 3-0 victory with a third goal 13 minutes from time.
Earlier in the day, league leaders Al-Qadsiah maintained top spot with a 5-0 win over Al-Kholood, featuring goals from Tijjani Reijnders, Mateo Retegui and Julian Quinones.
