Ronaldo shone in the opening match of his 24th professional season. The Portuguese forward played the full 90 minutes, had 32 touches, an 83% passing accuracy with three key passes, completed two dribbles, and took eight shots with two on target.

Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates after scoring during Al Nassr's 3-1 victory over Al Taawoun in the first round of the Saudi Pro League at King Abdullah Sport City, Buraidah, Saudi Arabia on 29/8. Image: Al Nassr

Joao Felix receives the man-of-the-match award. Image: Al Nassr

Early in the second half, an Al Taawoun player handled the ball in the penalty area, resulting in a penalty for Al Nassr. Ronaldo took the penalty, sending a low shot to the left corner, deceiving the goalkeeper. He then celebrated with his signature spinning jump near the corner flag.

In the 87th minute, Ronaldo surged into the left side of the penalty area and unleashed a shot that deflected off an Al Taawoun defender. The ball hit the crossbar and fell perfectly for Joao Felix to score, sealing a 5-0 victory.

Ronaldo became the first player to score in 24 consecutive professional seasons. He also increased his career goal tally to 940 goals: 5 for Sporting Lisbon, 145 for Man Utd, 450 for Real Madrid, 101 for Juventus, 138 for the Portuguese national team, and 101 for Al Nassr.

After the match, the 40-year-old forward posted a picture on social media with the message "First step" and a fire emoji. He has stated his goal of becoming the first player to reach 1,000 career goals.

At King Abdullah Sport City, Al Nassr dominated the match with 60% possession and 21 shots, 10 of which were on target, compared to Al Taawoun's four shots with one on target. New signing Joao Felix shone with a hat-trick and was named man of the match. Fellow newcomer Kingsley Coman (signed for 32 million USD from Bayern Munich) scored the other goal.

After the international break, Al Nassr will return home to face Al Kholood in the second round of the Saudi Pro League on 14/9.

Hong Duy