Following the 1-0 victory over Al Riyadh four days earlier, Cristiano Ronaldo was again absent. His absence was a protest against Al Hilal's signing of Karim Benzema from Al Ittihad. The Portuguese forward believes Al Nassr does not receive investment proportionate to its rivals. Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) currently holds 75% stakes in the four leading Saudi Pro League teams: Al Hilal, Al Nassr, Al Ahli, and Al Ittihad. The remaining 25% is owned by individuals within the Royal Family.

Ronaldo's absence did not significantly impact Al Nassr's performance. Bolstered by the experience of Sadio Mane, Joao Felix, Kingsley Coman, and Marcelo Brozovic, the team maintained dominance. Against Al Ittihad, they controlled possession for 53%, took 18 shots with 7 on target, while their opponent managed only 5 shots with one on target.

Sadio Mane opened the scoring in Al Nassr's 2-0 victory over Al Ittihad in round 21 of the Saudi Pro League on the evening of 6/2. *Photo: Al Nassr*.

Had they capitalized on their opportunities, Al Nassr could have scored earlier. Mane missed two chances, shooting wide of an open goal. Felix also missed one opportunity, failing to connect with a cross from Brozovic.

In the 82nd minute, fortune finally favored the home side. After Ayman Yahya's volley struck an Al Ittihad player's hand in the penalty area, Mane converted the penalty, opening the scoring.

After conceding, Al Ittihad pushed forward in search of an equalizer. However, they paid a heavy price for their attacking play. In the 90+6th minute, following a solo run from his own half, Angelo Gabriel nutmegged the visiting goalkeeper, sealing the 2-0 victory. The Brazilian midfielder celebrated the goal with Ronaldo's familiar "Siu" gesture.

Angelo Gabriel sealed Al Nassr's 2-0 victory over Al Ittihad in round 21 of the Saudi Pro League on the evening of 6/2. *Photo: Al Nassr*.

Al Nassr reclaimed second place in the Saudi Pro League after their win against Al Ittihad. They have accumulated 49 points from 21 rounds, trailing Al Hilal by one point and leading Al Ahli by two points. Al Ittihad remains in seventh place with 34 points.

Due to his second consecutive absence, Ronaldo holds second place in the Golden Boot race with 17 goals. Julian Quinones of Al Qadsiah is also tied for second, while Ivan Toney of Al Ahli leads with 19 goals.

Thanh Quy