Agony for Cristiano Ronaldo as last-second error from goalkeeper Bento denies Al Nassr league title against Al Hilal

Since Ronaldo joined from Manchester United in January 2023, Al Nassr have twice finished second in the Saudi Pro League and were third last season. The last time the club won the league title was in 2019.

But Ronaldo’s wait for glory looked to be over on Tuesday.

With victory against rivals Al Hilal enough to clinch the title in front of their fans, Al Nassr were 1-0 up deep into injury-time.

However, with seconds remaining, a long throw was launched into the box which Al Nassr goalkeeper Bento came out to claim.

The Brazilian got to the ball but did not hold it as he collided with team-mate Inigo Martinez, the ball slipping through his hands and into the net.

Several Al Nassr players looked stunned by the error while Ronaldo, who had been taken off in the 83rd minute, cut a frustrated figure as he watched from the bench.

The result leaves Al Nassr five points clear at the top of the table with one game left to play. Second-placed Al Hilal have played a game less but Al Nassr can clinch the title if they beat Damac on May 20, or if Al Hilal fail to win their game in hand on May 16.

Al Nassr are also in the Asian Champions League Two final against Gamba Osaka on May 16 so there is a world where they could win two titles in one day.

Despite the setback against Al-Hilal, Ronaldo struck a positive tone on social media afterwards. 

"The dream is close,” he wrote. ”Heads up, we have one more step to take! Thank you all for the incredible support tonight.” 

Ronaldo has scored 26 goals in 29 appearances in the Saudi Pro League this season.

He has 971 career goals as he aims to hit the 1,000 mark and looks set to play for Portugal at this summer's World Cup.

Al Nassr head coach Jorge Jesus also played down the impact of the draw.

”I told the fans that we still have a game at our stadium to win the league title, and naturally, everyone wants to be champions when there is only one game left.

"It is difficult for us to accept the draw because we wanted to secure the title today, but, God willing, Al Nassr will achieve victory against Damac.  

”We also cannot forget that we have the Champions League Two final before this and I'm a little concerned because several players are suffering from fatigue.”

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