Cristiano Ronaldo moved significantly closer to becoming the first player in history to score 1,000 career goals after netting a hat trick in a span of just 15 minutes. The Portuguese forward's performance led Al Nassr to a 5-3 victory over Al Kholood in the Saudi Pro League on Thursday, raising his all-time tally to 985.
With the match tied at 2-2, Ronaldo took control of the game by scoring in the 66th, 72nd, and 81st minutes. His three goals included two close-range finishes and a header, marking his seventh career hat trick for Al Nassr since joining the club in 2023. Following the match, Ronaldo acknowledged the team effort on social media, stating, "Great win, great team performance. Happy to help with a hat-trick!"
The contest was an open affair from the start. French forward Julien Domingues gave Al Kholood the lead after 16 minutes, but Ângelo Gabriel equalized for Al Nassr. Sadio Mané then put the visitors ahead before Antoine Essomba scored in stoppage time of the first half to level the score again at 2-2.
Ronaldo's latest feat further extends his lead as the all-time leading goalscorer in soccer history. He now sits 49 goals ahead of Lionel Messi, who has 936 career goals. Across his club and country career, Ronaldo has recorded a staggering 67 hat tricks: 44 for Real Madrid, 10 for Portugal, seven for Al Nassr, three for Manchester United, and three for Juventus.
Teammate João Félix also contributed significantly to the victory, providing four assists. The win keeps Al Nassr in second place on the Saudi Pro League table with 28 points.
Sources: ESPN Soccer.