Mane and Ronaldo Fire Al-Nassr Past Al-Ittihad to Extend Perfect Start

Sadio Mane and Cristiano Ronaldo combined to devastating effect as Al-Nassr claimed a 2-0 win over defending champions Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League on Friday, moving three points clear at the top of the table.

Mane set the tone early, breaking the deadlock in the ninth minute with a sharp first-time finish. The Senegalese forward then turned provider in the 35th minute, delivering a pinpoint cross for Ronaldo, who powered home a header from close range past Predrag Rajkovic.

The strike marked Ronaldo’s fourth league goal of the season, placing him second in the scoring charts, just one behind teammate Joao Felix. Felix, however, endured a frustrating evening, squandering several chances to add to Al-Nassr’s tally.

Despite trailing, Al-Ittihad struggled to impose themselves, registering just two shots on target throughout the contest. A late rally hinted at a possible comeback, but Brazilian goalkeeper Bento stood firm to preserve Al-Nassr’s clean sheet.

The victory keeps Al-Nassr’s flawless start intact, with four wins from four matches and 12 points secured. Al-Ittihad, meanwhile, slipped to second place after suffering their first defeat of the campaign.