AFCON 2025
Cristiano Ronaldo’s prolific scoring form was on full display, but it was not enough to spare Al Nassr from a 3–2 defeat to Spanish Segunda División side UD Almería in a lively friendly at the Estadio de los Juegos del Mediterráneo.
The hosts struck first in the sixth minute through Sergio Arribas, who fired in a left-footed effort to give Almería an early advantage. Ronaldo responded in the 17th minute after a clever build-up involving Sadio Mané, finishing with trademark composure to level the score.
The Portuguese star then put Al Nassr ahead just before the half-hour mark, calmly converting a penalty he had earned.
Al Nassr’s lead was short-lived as Adrián Embarba produced a stunning lob from distance in the 43rd minute after a defensive lapse, restoring parity before the break.
The second half saw Almería grow in confidence, and Embarba struck again in the 61st minute, latching onto a precise pass to slot home the decisive goal.
Despite Ronaldo’s brace and flashes of attacking quality, Al Nassr’s defensive frailties were once again exposed, with high pressing and quick transitions causing problems throughout.
Ronaldo, who played only the first half, reaffirmed his enduring sharpness at 40 years old, while new signing João Félix endured a frustrating evening, struggling to make a notable impact over the full 90 minutes.
