Wijnaldum Stuns Ronaldo! Al Ettifaq 2-2 Al Nassr as 10-Match Winning Run Finally Ends.
Wijnaldum Brace Denies Ronaldo as Al Ettifaq Hold Al Nassr 2-2.Al Ettifaq 2-2 Al Nassr: Wijnaldum Brace Denies Ronaldo in Thrilling Saudi Pro League Draw. Al Ettifaq 2-2 Al Nassr was a dramatic Saudi Pro League encounter on 30 December 2025 as Georginio Wijnaldum scored twice to deny Cristiano Ronaldo and the league leaders all three points at the Prince Mohammed bin Fahd Stadium in Dammam.
Al Nassr appeared to be heading towards an 11th consecutive victory after Joao Felix equalised and a fortunate Ronaldo goal put the visitors 2-1 ahead. However, Wijnaldum struck again late in the match to secure a valuable point for Al Ettifaq.
The result ended Al Nassr's perfect winning run and added fresh intrigue to the Saudi Pro League title race heading into 2026.
Al Ettifaq 2-2 Al Nassr: Match Summary
Match DetailInformation
Competition Saudi Pro League 2025-26
Date 30 December 2025
Venue Prince Mohammed bin Fahd Stadium, Dammam
Result Al Ettifaq 2-2 Al Nassr
Al Ettifaq scorers Georginio Wijnaldum 16', 80'
Al Nassr scorers Joao Felix, Cristiano Ronaldo
Key storyline Wijnaldum's brace ended Al Nassr's winning run
Al Nassr entered the match with maximum confidence after winning their opening 10 league fixtures. The visitors had been producing consistent attacking performances, while their defensive record had helped them establish themselves at the top of the table.
Al Ettifaq, however, refused to be overwhelmed by the leaders.
Wijnaldum's two goals proved decisive, with the former Liverpool midfielder producing both a spectacular opener and a composed late equaliser.
Wijnaldum Gives Al Ettifaq the Perfect Start
The match immediately developed into a fascinating contest.
An early challenge involving Al Nassr left-back Saad Al-Nasser resulted in a red card being shown before VAR intervention reportedly downgraded the decision to a yellow.
The incident increased the intensity inside the stadium, and Al Ettifaq soon took advantage.
In the 16th minute, Wijnaldum received the ball near the edge of the penalty area during a quick attack. The Dutch midfielder created enough space before curling an excellent effort into the top-right corner.
The home supporters erupted as Al Ettifaq moved 1-0 ahead.
It was a reminder that Wijnaldum remains capable of producing moments of individual quality in important matches.
Al Nassr Control Possession but Fail to Equalise
After conceding, Al Nassr increased the pressure.
The visitors dominated possession and began creating more opportunities around the Al Ettifaq penalty area.
Sultan Al Ghannam came close with a long-range attempt that struck the crossbar, while Kingsley Coman also tested goalkeeper Marek Rodak.
Despite the pressure, Al Ettifaq's defence remained organised.
Ronaldo found it difficult to influence the first half, while the hosts continued to threaten whenever they were able to break forward.
At half-time, Al Ettifaq held a 1-0 lead.
Joao Felix Quickly Brings Al Nassr Level
Al Nassr came out strongly after the interval.
Within roughly a minute of the restart, Joao Felix found the equaliser.
The Portuguese forward collected a through ball, drove towards the penalty area and finished low into the bottom-left corner beyond Rodak.
The goal made it 1-1 and completely changed the momentum.
Al Nassr now looked increasingly dangerous, while Al Ettifaq were forced to defend deeper.
Felix's movement was particularly important for the visitors. His ability to find space between the midfield and defensive lines gave Al Nassr another attacking route alongside Ronaldo.
Ronaldo's Fortunate Goal Puts Al Nassr Ahead
The visitors completed their comeback in the second half through a highly unusual goal.
Felix produced another powerful effort, but the ball struck Ronaldo and changed direction before finding the net.
Ronaldo celebrated after the goal, which put Al Nassr 2-1 ahead.
The goal was particularly memorable because of the unusual manner in which the ball reached the net.
For Al Nassr supporters, it appeared to be the moment that would preserve their perfect start. With the visitors controlling possession and creating opportunities, the match seemed to be moving towards another victory.
But Wijnaldum had other plans.
Wijnaldum Strikes Again to Rescue Al Ettifaq
The decisive moment arrived in the 80th minute.
Substitute Radhi Al-Otaibi helped create the opening with a long ball forward. Wijnaldum timed his movement well, received the ball inside the area and produced a composed low finish.
2-2.
The stadium exploded as Wijnaldum completed his brace.
The goal transformed the final stages of the match. Al Nassr immediately pushed forward again, searching for a third goal, but Al Ettifaq defended their position effectively.
Ronaldo had a late left-footed effort that went wide, while Al Nassr also won several corners.
However, the hosts held firm.
The final whistle confirmed a 2-2 draw.
Key Match Statistics
StatisticAl EttifaqAl Nassr
Possession 38% 62%
Shots 10 26
Shots on target 5 8
Corners 4 10
Fouls 12 9
Yellow cards 2 3
Red cards 0 0
The statistics underline Al Nassr's territorial and attacking dominance.
The visitors had significantly more possession and produced 26 shots compared with Al Ettifaq's 10.
Yet football is not decided solely by possession or shot volume.
Al Ettifaq were more efficient with the opportunities they created, and Wijnaldum's finishing ultimately earned them a point.
Georginio Wijnaldum: The Undisputed Match Hero
Wijnaldum was the central figure of the evening.
His opening goal demonstrated his technical quality, while his second showed composure at a crucial stage of the contest.
The brace also gave Al Ettifaq something they had been missing during long periods of the match: an attacking player capable of turning limited opportunities into goals.
His leadership was equally important.
With Al Nassr repeatedly threatening, Wijnaldum continued to contribute at both ends of the pitch and eventually produced the goal that stopped the league leaders from taking all three points.
Joao Felix Impresses for Al Nassr
Felix also played a major role in Al Nassr's comeback.
His equaliser came at an important moment, immediately putting pressure back on Al Ettifaq.
The Portuguese forward was also involved in the move that eventually produced Ronaldo's second-half goal.
His movement and creativity gave Al Nassr additional variety in attack and demonstrated why the partnership between Felix and Ronaldo could become an important feature of the team's season.
Cristiano Ronaldo's Night of Mixed Emotions
Ronaldo entered the game looking to continue Al Nassr's extraordinary winning run.
Although he did not dominate the match, he eventually found himself on the scoresheet after the ball deflected into the net off him.
The goal gave Al Nassr the lead, but Wijnaldum's late equaliser meant Ronaldo could not celebrate another league victory.
The draw therefore represented a rare interruption to Al Nassr's early-season momentum.
Marek Rodak Keeps Al Ettifaq in the Contest
Al Ettifaq goalkeeper Marek Rodak also played an important role.
Al Nassr's 26 shots demonstrated the pressure he faced throughout the match.
The visitors repeatedly tested the Al Ettifaq goal, but Rodak and the defensive unit managed to prevent Al Nassr from turning their statistical dominance into a winning scoreline.
His contribution was particularly important during the periods when Al Nassr appeared capable of taking complete control.
Tactical Battle: Possession vs Efficiency
One of the most interesting aspects of Al Ettifaq 2-2 Al Nassr was the contrast between the two sides' approaches.
Al Nassr controlled 62% possession and registered 26 shots. Their approach was based on keeping the ball, pushing forward and repeatedly testing the home defence.
Al Ettifaq had just 38% possession, but they remained dangerous when attacking quickly.
The hosts demonstrated that a team does not necessarily need to dominate possession to remain competitive.
Their efficiency in front of goal allowed them to stay within touching distance of Al Nassr and eventually punish the visitors with a late equaliser.
Why the Draw Matters for Al Nassr
The result ended Al Nassr's perfect start.
After winning their first 10 league matches, the leaders finally dropped points.
Although a single draw does not determine the outcome of a long league campaign, it provides a reminder that maintaining consistency over an entire season is difficult.
The result also gives chasing teams greater encouragement.
Al Nassr still had a strong position according to the source article, but rivals such as Al Hilal and Al Taawoun could potentially reduce the gap depending on their own results.
The title race therefore became more interesting as the calendar moved towards 2026.
What the Draw Means for Al Ettifaq
For Al Ettifaq, earning a point against the league leaders represented an important result.
The hosts showed resilience after surrendering their initial lead and later falling 2-1 behind.
Instead of allowing the match to disappear, they continued searching for an equaliser.
Wijnaldum's 80th-minute goal rewarded that persistence.
The result could also provide confidence to an Al Ettifaq squad competing against some of the Saudi Pro League's most heavily backed clubs.
Key TakeawaysAl Ettifaq drew 2-2 with Al Nassr.
Georginio Wijnaldum scored twice for the hosts.
Joao Felix scored for Al Nassr.
Cristiano Ronaldo also got on the scoresheet.
Al Nassr's 10-match winning run came to an end.
Al Nassr dominated possession and registered 26 shots.
Al Ettifaq showed greater efficiency in front of goal.
Wijnaldum's late equaliser secured a valuable point.
The draw increased attention around the Saudi Pro League title race.
Player Performances and Standouts
Georginio Wijnaldum (Al Ettifaq): Man of the Match. His two goals were masterpieces: a curled beauty for the opener and a composed finish for the equalizer. The 34-year-old's leadership and composure under pressure evoked memories of his Champions League heroics.
Joao Felix (Al Nassr): Instrumental in the comeback, scoring one and assisting the other (albeit unintentionally). His movement and vision terrorized Ettifaq's backline.
Cristiano Ronaldo (Al Nassr): Scored his 957th career goal in comical fashion but was otherwise subdued. Still leads the SPL scoring charts with 13 goals.
Marek Rodak (Al Ettifaq): Several crucial saves kept his team in the game.
Defensively, Inigo Martinez struggled, at fault for both Wijnaldum goals.
Post-Match Reactions and Implications
Jorge Jesus lamented missed chances: "We dominated but football punishes you if you don't kill the game." Ronaldo, ever optimistic, posted on social media: "We are on the right path and we know what we need to do in 2026!"
For Ettifaq, it was a statement result, boosting them in mid-table (around 16 points). Al Nassr top the standings with 31 points from 12 matches (10 wins, 1 draw, 1 implied prior or wait—actually 10-1-0 before, now 10-1-1? Wait, pre-match 10-0-0 or 10 wins, then draw makes 10-1-0, 31 points).
The draw opens the door for chasers. Al Hilal, with a game in hand, could close the gap significantly.
PositionTeamPlayedPoints1 Al Nassr 12 31
2 Al Taawoun ? ~28
3 Al Hilal 11 ~26
... Al Ettifaq 12 ~16
(This table approximates based on reports; Al Nassr's lead is now vulnerable.)
Ronaldo's quest for 1,000 career goals continues—he needs 43 more. This quirky back-deflection goal added to his legend, even in defeat (or draw).
Broader Context in the Saudi Pro League
The SPL's global appeal shines through such matches: European stars like Ronaldo, Felix, Coman, and Wijnaldum clashing in high-stakes drama. Al Nassr's streak evoked comparisons to Al Hilal's dominant runs, but Ettifaq's resilience reminds us why the league is increasingly competitive.
The decisive moment arrived in the 80th minute.
Substitute Radhi Al-Otaibi helped create the opening with a long ball forward. Wijnaldum timed his movement well, received the ball inside the area and produced a composed low finish.
2-2.
The stadium exploded as Wijnaldum completed his brace.
The goal transformed the final stages of the match. Al Nassr immediately pushed forward again, searching for a third goal, but Al Ettifaq defended their position effectively.
Ronaldo had a late left-footed effort that went wide, while Al Nassr also won several corners.
However, the hosts held firm.
The final whistle confirmed a 2-2 draw.
Key Match Statistics
StatisticAl EttifaqAl Nassr
Possession 38% 62%
Shots 10 26
Shots on target 5 8
Corners 4 10
Fouls 12 9
Yellow cards 2 3
Red cards 0 0
The statistics underline Al Nassr's territorial and attacking dominance.
The visitors had significantly more possession and produced 26 shots compared with Al Ettifaq's 10.
Yet football is not decided solely by possession or shot volume.
Al Ettifaq were more efficient with the opportunities they created, and Wijnaldum's finishing ultimately earned them a point.
Georginio Wijnaldum: The Undisputed Match Hero
Wijnaldum was the central figure of the evening.
His opening goal demonstrated his technical quality, while his second showed composure at a crucial stage of the contest.
The brace also gave Al Ettifaq something they had been missing during long periods of the match: an attacking player capable of turning limited opportunities into goals.
His leadership was equally important.
With Al Nassr repeatedly threatening, Wijnaldum continued to contribute at both ends of the pitch and eventually produced the goal that stopped the league leaders from taking all three points.
Joao Felix Impresses for Al Nassr
Felix also played a major role in Al Nassr's comeback.
His equaliser came at an important moment, immediately putting pressure back on Al Ettifaq.
The Portuguese forward was also involved in the move that eventually produced Ronaldo's second-half goal.
His movement and creativity gave Al Nassr additional variety in attack and demonstrated why the partnership between Felix and Ronaldo could become an important feature of the team's season.
Cristiano Ronaldo's Night of Mixed Emotions
Ronaldo entered the game looking to continue Al Nassr's extraordinary winning run.
Although he did not dominate the match, he eventually found himself on the scoresheet after the ball deflected into the net off him.
The goal gave Al Nassr the lead, but Wijnaldum's late equaliser meant Ronaldo could not celebrate another league victory.
The draw therefore represented a rare interruption to Al Nassr's early-season momentum.
Marek Rodak Keeps Al Ettifaq in the Contest
Al Ettifaq goalkeeper Marek Rodak also played an important role.
Al Nassr's 26 shots demonstrated the pressure he faced throughout the match.
The visitors repeatedly tested the Al Ettifaq goal, but Rodak and the defensive unit managed to prevent Al Nassr from turning their statistical dominance into a winning scoreline.
His contribution was particularly important during the periods when Al Nassr appeared capable of taking complete control.
Tactical Battle: Possession vs Efficiency
One of the most interesting aspects of Al Ettifaq 2-2 Al Nassr was the contrast between the two sides' approaches.
Al Nassr controlled 62% possession and registered 26 shots. Their approach was based on keeping the ball, pushing forward and repeatedly testing the home defence.
Al Ettifaq had just 38% possession, but they remained dangerous when attacking quickly.
The hosts demonstrated that a team does not necessarily need to dominate possession to remain competitive.
Their efficiency in front of goal allowed them to stay within touching distance of Al Nassr and eventually punish the visitors with a late equaliser.
Why the Draw Matters for Al Nassr
The result ended Al Nassr's perfect start.
After winning their first 10 league matches, the leaders finally dropped points.
Although a single draw does not determine the outcome of a long league campaign, it provides a reminder that maintaining consistency over an entire season is difficult.
The result also gives chasing teams greater encouragement.
Al Nassr still had a strong position according to the source article, but rivals such as Al Hilal and Al Taawoun could potentially reduce the gap depending on their own results.
The title race therefore became more interesting as the calendar moved towards 2026.
What the Draw Means for Al Ettifaq
For Al Ettifaq, earning a point against the league leaders represented an important result.
The hosts showed resilience after surrendering their initial lead and later falling 2-1 behind.
Instead of allowing the match to disappear, they continued searching for an equaliser.
Wijnaldum's 80th-minute goal rewarded that persistence.
The result could also provide confidence to an Al Ettifaq squad competing against some of the Saudi Pro League's most heavily backed clubs.
Key TakeawaysAl Ettifaq drew 2-2 with Al Nassr.
Georginio Wijnaldum scored twice for the hosts.
Joao Felix scored for Al Nassr.
Cristiano Ronaldo also got on the scoresheet.
Al Nassr's 10-match winning run came to an end.
Al Nassr dominated possession and registered 26 shots.
Al Ettifaq showed greater efficiency in front of goal.
Wijnaldum's late equaliser secured a valuable point.
The draw increased attention around the Saudi Pro League title race.
Al Ettifaq 2-2 Al Nassr: Wijnaldum's Dramatic Brace Ends Ronaldo's Perfect Run in Thrilling Saudi Pro League Clash.
On a tense evening at the Prince Mohammed bin Fahd Stadium in Dammam on December 30, 2025, Al Ettifaq pulled off a stunning comeback to hold league leaders Al Nassr to a 2-2 draw, ending their flawless start to the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League season.
On a tense evening at the Prince Mohammed bin Fahd Stadium in Dammam on December 30, 2025, Al Ettifaq pulled off a stunning comeback to hold league leaders Al Nassr to a 2-2 draw, ending their flawless start to the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League season.
Georginio Wijnaldum, the former Liverpool midfielder and Al Ettifaq captain, stole the headlines with a brilliant brace, denying Cristiano Ronaldo and his star-studded teammates an 11th consecutive victory. Joao Felix and a fortuitous Ronaldo goal had seemingly turned the tide for the visitors, but Wijnaldum's late equalizer ensured the points were shared in a match packed with drama, controversy, and high-quality football.
This result snapped Al Nassr's remarkable 10-game winning streak, a run that had seen them surge to the top of the table with maximum points from their opening fixtures. Despite the draw, Jorge Jesus' side remain firmly in pole position, but the gap to pursuers like Al Taawoun and Al Hilal has narrowed, injecting fresh excitement into the title race as the calendar turns to 2026.
pre-Match Build-Up: A Test for the Unbeaten Leaders
Al Nassr arrived in Dammam riding a wave of momentum. Having dispatched Al Okhdood 3-0 just days earlier—with Ronaldo and Felix both on the scoresheet—they boasted a perfect record: 10 wins from 10, 33 goals scored, and a rock-solid defense. The additions of high-profile talents like Joao Felix (from Chelsea), Kingsley Coman, and Inigo Martinez had transformed them into a formidable force under Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus.
In contrast, Al Ettifaq sat comfortably mid-table in 8th or 9th place, with a solid but unspectacular record. Managed by Saad Al-Shehri, the hosts relied on experienced imports like Wijnaldum, Moussa Dembele, and goalkeeper Marek Rodak to punch above their weight. The matchup promised intrigue: could Ettifaq become the first team to take points off the runaway leaders?
Lineups confirmed Ronaldo's start alongside Felix in attack, with Marcelo Brozovic anchoring midfield and Sultan Al Ghannam providing width. Ettifaq fielded a resilient 4-4-2, with Wijnaldum pulling strings centrally and Dembele leading the line.
First Half: Controversy and Wijnaldum's Stunner
The game exploded into life early. In the 6th minute, Al Nassr left-back Saad Al-Nasser (or Saad Fahad in some reports) lunged into a challenge on Madallah Al-Olayan, prompting the referee to brandish a straight red card. Al Nassr were momentarily reduced to 10 men, but VAR intervened swiftly, downgrading it to a yellow. The visitors breathed a sigh of relief, but the incident galvanized the hosts.
Ettifaq capitalized on the momentum. In the 16th minute, Wijnaldum received the ball on the edge of the box during a swift counter. The Dutchman took a touch, created space, and unleashed a curling strike into the top-right corner— a vintage finish reminiscent of his Liverpool days. 1-0 to Ettifaq, and the home crowd erupted.
Al Nassr dominated possession thereafter, peppering Rodak's goal with efforts. Sultan Al Ghannam struck the crossbar from 25 yards, and Kingsley Coman tested the keeper, but Ettifaq's defense—marshaled by Jack Hendry and Abdullah Khateeb—held firm. Ronaldo, unusually quiet in the first half, failed to register a shot on target.
This result snapped Al Nassr's remarkable 10-game winning streak, a run that had seen them surge to the top of the table with maximum points from their opening fixtures. Despite the draw, Jorge Jesus' side remain firmly in pole position, but the gap to pursuers like Al Taawoun and Al Hilal has narrowed, injecting fresh excitement into the title race as the calendar turns to 2026.
pre-Match Build-Up: A Test for the Unbeaten Leaders
Al Nassr arrived in Dammam riding a wave of momentum. Having dispatched Al Okhdood 3-0 just days earlier—with Ronaldo and Felix both on the scoresheet—they boasted a perfect record: 10 wins from 10, 33 goals scored, and a rock-solid defense. The additions of high-profile talents like Joao Felix (from Chelsea), Kingsley Coman, and Inigo Martinez had transformed them into a formidable force under Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus.
In contrast, Al Ettifaq sat comfortably mid-table in 8th or 9th place, with a solid but unspectacular record. Managed by Saad Al-Shehri, the hosts relied on experienced imports like Wijnaldum, Moussa Dembele, and goalkeeper Marek Rodak to punch above their weight. The matchup promised intrigue: could Ettifaq become the first team to take points off the runaway leaders?
Lineups confirmed Ronaldo's start alongside Felix in attack, with Marcelo Brozovic anchoring midfield and Sultan Al Ghannam providing width. Ettifaq fielded a resilient 4-4-2, with Wijnaldum pulling strings centrally and Dembele leading the line.
First Half: Controversy and Wijnaldum's Stunner
The game exploded into life early. In the 6th minute, Al Nassr left-back Saad Al-Nasser (or Saad Fahad in some reports) lunged into a challenge on Madallah Al-Olayan, prompting the referee to brandish a straight red card. Al Nassr were momentarily reduced to 10 men, but VAR intervened swiftly, downgrading it to a yellow. The visitors breathed a sigh of relief, but the incident galvanized the hosts.
Ettifaq capitalized on the momentum. In the 16th minute, Wijnaldum received the ball on the edge of the box during a swift counter. The Dutchman took a touch, created space, and unleashed a curling strike into the top-right corner— a vintage finish reminiscent of his Liverpool days. 1-0 to Ettifaq, and the home crowd erupted.
Al Nassr dominated possession thereafter, peppering Rodak's goal with efforts. Sultan Al Ghannam struck the crossbar from 25 yards, and Kingsley Coman tested the keeper, but Ettifaq's defense—marshaled by Jack Hendry and Abdullah Khateeb—held firm. Ronaldo, unusually quiet in the first half, failed to register a shot on target.
Halftime: Al Ettifaq 1-0 Al Nassr.
Second Half: Nassr's Quickfire Comeback
Al Nassr emerged from the break with renewed vigor. Just 60 seconds into the second period— the 46th or 47th minute—Joao Felix equalized. The Portuguese forward latched onto a through ball, drove forward, and slotted a low shot into the bottom-left corner past Rodak. 1-1, and the momentum swung decisively.
The visitors pressed relentlessly. In the 66th or 67th minute came one of the night's most bizarre moments. Felix, again the architect, unleashed a powerful shot from a similar position. The ball cannoned off Ronaldo's back—standing in an offside position but not interfering intentionally—and wrong-footed the keeper, nestling into the net. Ronaldo's 957th career goal, his 13th in the league this season, and a trademark "Siuuu" celebration followed. Al Nassr led 2-1, and their perfect record seemed secure.
Ronaldo's strike brought him level with historical benchmarks, matching records set by past SPL greats at this stage of the season. Felix, too, reached 13 goals, underscoring the duo's lethal partnership.
Late Drama: Wijnaldum Haunts Nassr Again
With Al Nassr controlling proceedings and Ettifaq chasing shadows, a draw seemed unlikely. But football's beauty lies in its unpredictability. In the 80th minute, substitute Radhi Al-Otaibi launched a long ball forward. Wijnaldum timed his run perfectly, met the cutback in the box, and fired a clinical low shot past the despairing dive of Al Nassr's goalkeeper. 2-2!
The stadium erupted as Wijnaldum wheeled away in celebration, his brace rescuing a vital point for the hosts. Al Nassr threw everything forward in the dying minutes—Ronaldo's left-footed effort whistled wide, and corners were repelled—but Ettifaq held on. Full-time: Al Ettifaq 2-2 Al Nassr.
Ronaldo's Al-Nassr drop first points of season in dramatic ...
Key Match Statistics
StatisticAl EttifaqAl NassrPossession 38% 62%
Shots 10 26
Shots on Target 5 8
Corners 4 10
Fouls 12 9
Yellow Cards 2 3
Red Cards 0 0
Al Nassr's dominance in shots and possession highlights their pressure, but Ettifaq's clinical finishing—led by Wijnaldum—proved decisive.
Second Half: Nassr's Quickfire Comeback
Al Nassr emerged from the break with renewed vigor. Just 60 seconds into the second period— the 46th or 47th minute—Joao Felix equalized. The Portuguese forward latched onto a through ball, drove forward, and slotted a low shot into the bottom-left corner past Rodak. 1-1, and the momentum swung decisively.
The visitors pressed relentlessly. In the 66th or 67th minute came one of the night's most bizarre moments. Felix, again the architect, unleashed a powerful shot from a similar position. The ball cannoned off Ronaldo's back—standing in an offside position but not interfering intentionally—and wrong-footed the keeper, nestling into the net. Ronaldo's 957th career goal, his 13th in the league this season, and a trademark "Siuuu" celebration followed. Al Nassr led 2-1, and their perfect record seemed secure.
Ronaldo's strike brought him level with historical benchmarks, matching records set by past SPL greats at this stage of the season. Felix, too, reached 13 goals, underscoring the duo's lethal partnership.
Late Drama: Wijnaldum Haunts Nassr Again
With Al Nassr controlling proceedings and Ettifaq chasing shadows, a draw seemed unlikely. But football's beauty lies in its unpredictability. In the 80th minute, substitute Radhi Al-Otaibi launched a long ball forward. Wijnaldum timed his run perfectly, met the cutback in the box, and fired a clinical low shot past the despairing dive of Al Nassr's goalkeeper. 2-2!
The stadium erupted as Wijnaldum wheeled away in celebration, his brace rescuing a vital point for the hosts. Al Nassr threw everything forward in the dying minutes—Ronaldo's left-footed effort whistled wide, and corners were repelled—but Ettifaq held on. Full-time: Al Ettifaq 2-2 Al Nassr.
Ronaldo's Al-Nassr drop first points of season in dramatic ...
Key Match Statistics
StatisticAl EttifaqAl NassrPossession 38% 62%
Shots 10 26
Shots on Target 5 8
Corners 4 10
Fouls 12 9
Yellow Cards 2 3
Red Cards 0 0
Al Nassr's dominance in shots and possession highlights their pressure, but Ettifaq's clinical finishing—led by Wijnaldum—proved decisive.
Player Performances and Standouts
Georginio Wijnaldum (Al Ettifaq): Man of the Match. His two goals were masterpieces: a curled beauty for the opener and a composed finish for the equalizer. The 34-year-old's leadership and composure under pressure evoked memories of his Champions League heroics.
Joao Felix (Al Nassr): Instrumental in the comeback, scoring one and assisting the other (albeit unintentionally). His movement and vision terrorized Ettifaq's backline.
Cristiano Ronaldo (Al Nassr): Scored his 957th career goal in comical fashion but was otherwise subdued. Still leads the SPL scoring charts with 13 goals.
Marek Rodak (Al Ettifaq): Several crucial saves kept his team in the game.
Defensively, Inigo Martinez struggled, at fault for both Wijnaldum goals.
Post-Match Reactions and Implications
Jorge Jesus lamented missed chances: "We dominated but football punishes you if you don't kill the game." Ronaldo, ever optimistic, posted on social media: "We are on the right path and we know what we need to do in 2026!"
For Ettifaq, it was a statement result, boosting them in mid-table (around 16 points). Al Nassr top the standings with 31 points from 12 matches (10 wins, 1 draw, 1 implied prior or wait—actually 10-1-0 before, now 10-1-1? Wait, pre-match 10-0-0 or 10 wins, then draw makes 10-1-0, 31 points).
The draw opens the door for chasers. Al Hilal, with a game in hand, could close the gap significantly.
PositionTeamPlayedPoints1 Al Nassr 12 31
2 Al Taawoun ? ~28
3 Al Hilal 11 ~26
... Al Ettifaq 12 ~16
(This table approximates based on reports; Al Nassr's lead is now vulnerable.)
Ronaldo's quest for 1,000 career goals continues—he needs 43 more. This quirky back-deflection goal added to his legend, even in defeat (or draw).
Broader Context in the Saudi Pro League
The SPL's global appeal shines through such matches: European stars like Ronaldo, Felix, Coman, and Wijnaldum clashing in high-stakes drama. Al Nassr's streak evoked comparisons to Al Hilal's dominant runs, but Ettifaq's resilience reminds us why the league is increasingly competitive.
As 2025 ends, this draw serves as a reality check for Al Nassr. Can they regroup and reclaim invincibility in 2026? Or will Wijnaldum's heroics inspire others to challenge the throne?
This thrilling encounter encapsulated everything captivating about modern Saudi football: skill, stars, surprises, and sheer entertainment.
This thrilling encounter encapsulated everything captivating about modern Saudi football: skill, stars, surprises, and sheer entertainment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the result of Al Ettifaq vs Al Nassr?Al Ettifaq and Al Nassr drew 2-2 in the Saudi Pro League on 30 December 2025.
Who scored for Al Ettifaq?
Georginio Wijnaldum scored both of Al Ettifaq's goals.
Did Cristiano Ronaldo score against Al Ettifaq?
Yes. Ronaldo was credited with Al Nassr's second goal after the ball struck him and changed direction before entering the net.
Yes. Ronaldo was credited with Al Nassr's second goal after the ball struck him and changed direction before entering the net.
How many shots did Al Nassr have?
According to the supplied match statistics, Al Nassr registered 26 shots, compared with 10 for Al Ettifaq.
Did Al Nassr lose the match?
No. Al Nassr drew 2-2 with Al Ettifaq. The result ended their winning run but did not constitute a defeat.
Who was the standout player?
Georginio Wijnaldum was the standout performer after scoring twice, including the late equaliser that secured a point for Al Ettifaq.
Did Al Nassr remain top of the league?
The supplied article states that Al Nassr remained at the top of the table after the draw, although the exact surrounding standings in the source are presented as approximate.
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