Al Nassr continued their push for second place in the Saudi Pro League with a narrow 1-0 victory over Al Khaleej on Saturday. The win came courtesy of a solitary goal from unlikely hero, defender Aymeric Laporte, with Croatian maestro Marcelo Brozovic providing the assist.
Ronaldo Returns, But Laporte Steals the Show
The biggest pre-match talking point was the return of Cristiano Ronaldo after serving a two-match ban. The Portuguese superstar, eager to make amends for his red card against Al Hilal, was reinstated after a successful appeal. However, it was Laporte who emerged as the match-winner.
The home side, Al Khaleej, put on a spirited display, frustrating Al Nassr for much of the match. Their defensive resilience kept Ronaldo and company at bay, with Al Nassr struggling to break down a resolute Al Khaleej backline.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 68th minute. Brozovic, ever the playmaker, orchestrated the move with a delightful pass that found Laporte lurking in the box. The French defender rose to the occasion, guiding a header past the Al Khaleej goalkeeper to secure the all-important three points for Al Nassr.
Despite the slender margin of victory, the win keeps Al Nassr firmly in the hunt for second place. Coach Rudi Garcia will be breathing a sigh of relief after a potentially tricky fixture, while Al Khaleej will rue their missed opportunities.
While Ronaldo may not have been on the scoresheet, Laporte’s vital goal ensured Al Nassr maintained their winning momentum. His defensive solidity and opportunistic header proved decisive in a tight encounter.
Al Nassr will look to build on this win as they face their next opponent, while Al Khaleej will hope to bounce back and secure crucial points in their fight for a respectable finish in the league.
