Al Nassr vs Al Ahli: Can Ronaldo’s Record-Breaking Leaders Be Stopped in Jeddah?
The Saudi Pro League’s top-of-the-table narrative takes centre stage in Jeddah today as Cristiano Ronaldo’s dominant Al Nassr face a stern test against a resurgent Al Ahli. With Al Nassr setting a historic pace and Ronaldo inching ever closer to his 1,000-goal milestone, this clash is more than just three points—it’s a statement of intent for the title race. The visitors arrive with an aura of invincibility slightly dented by a recent draw, while the hosts are in fine form, setting the stage for a classic Saudi football showdown.
The Stakes: League Table and Form Guide
As of January 2, 2026, the league landscape is crystal clear. Al Nassr sits atop the summit with a record-breaking start to the season, while Al Ahli occupies a respectable position just outside the AFC Champions League spots. This match is a classic case of the unstoppable force meeting a formidable home obstacle.
Current Saudi Pro League Standings (Top 5)
| Position | Team | Played | Wins | Draws | Losses | Points | Form |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Al Nassr | 11 | 10 | 1 | 0 | 31 | W W W W D |
| 2 | Al Hilal | 11 | 8 | 2 | 1 | 26 | W W D W W |
| 3 | Al Taawon | 11 | 7 | 3 | 1 | 24 | W D W W D |
| 4 | Al Ahli SC | 11 | 6 | 4 | 1 | 22 | W D W W L |
| 5 | Al Qadsiah | 11 | 6 | 2 | 3 | 20 | D L W W W |
Cristiano Ronaldo: The Relentless Milestone Hunter
At nearly 41 years old, Cristiano Ronaldo continues to defy time and physics. His performance this season is the engine driving Al Nassr’s historic campaign. The Portuguese icon is not just playing; he is chasing immortality with every match.
Ronaldo’s Al Nassr Goal Tally & Recent Form
| Statistic | Figure | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Total Goals for Al Nassr | 112 in 125 matches | Since joining the Riyadh-based club |
| Saudi Pro League Goals (2025/26) | 12 | Firmly in the Golden Boot race |
| Career Goals (as of Dec 30, 2025) | 957 | Inching toward the 1,000-goal target |
| Recent Performance | Brace vs. Al Okhdood (3-0 win) | Took his tally to goals 955 & 956 |
| Last Match | Scored vs. Al Ettifaq (2-2 draw) | A peculiar deflection goal for #957 |
“Ronaldo once again proved that age remains little more than a number as he powered Al Nassr to a dominant 3-0 victory,” noted Marca, encapsulating his enduring impact.
Match Preview: Tactics, History, and Key Details
This fixture is set for Friday, January 2, 2026, at 17:30 UTC (12:30 PM EST / 9:30 AM PST) at the Alinma Stadium in Jeddah. Al Nassr’s perfect 10-win streak to start the season—a Saudi Pro League record—was halted by a 2-2 draw with Al Ettifaq. Al Ahli, meanwhile, arrives in good form but suffered a dramatic 2-1 loss to Al Fateh in their last outing.
Head-to-Head Record & Recent Encounter
| Date | Match | Result | Competition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 2025 | Al Ahli vs. Al Nassr | Al Nassr 3 – 2 | Saudi Pro League |
| Apr 2026* | Al Nassr vs. Al Ahli | 1 – 1 | Saudi Pro League |
*Note: The April 2026 fixture listed in some sources appears to be a future scheduled match, not a past result. The most recent confirmed meeting was the 3-2 Al Nassr victory in August 2025.
The tactical battle will be fascinating. Al Nassr will look to Ronaldo’s predatory instincts and the creative forces around him to break down an Al Ahli side that has been strong at home, scoring 8 goals in front of their own fans this season. Can Al Ahli’s defence contain the league’s most potent attack? Or will Ronaldo’s relentless pursuit of history continue unabated on the road?
What a Victory Means for the Title Race
For Al Nassr, a win re-establishes a commanding lead and reinforces their status as clear title favourites. A draw or loss, however, opens the door for rivals like Al Hilal to close the gap. For Al Ahli, defeating the league leaders would be a massive statement, catapulting them into the top three and proving they can compete with the very best Saudi football has to offer. The psychological impact of this result cannot be overstated for either club’s ambitions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time is the Al Ahli vs Al Nassr match today?
The Saudi Pro League match between Al Ahli and Al Nassr kicks off at 17:30 UTC on Friday, January 2, 2026. For Canadian viewers, that’s 12:30 PM Eastern Standard Time (EST) or 9:30 AM Pacific Standard Time (PST).
How many goals has Cristiano Ronaldo scored for Al Nassr?
Cristiano Ronaldo has scored 112 goals in 125 total appearances for Al Nassr across all competitions. In the Saudi Pro League specifically, he has netted 86 goals in 88 matches for the club.
What is Al Nassr’s record in the Saudi Pro League this season?
Al Nassr has made history this 2025/26 season by becoming the first team to win its first 10 matches. Their current record after 11 games is 10 wins, 1 draw, and 0 losses, placing them first with 31 points.
Where can I watch Al Ahli vs Al Nassr in Canada?
While broadcast details can change, Saudi Pro League matches are typically available in Canada via streaming services that hold international football rights, such as DAZN or FuboTV. Check your local listings and streaming platform schedules for confirmed coverage.