Cristiano Ronaldo scored his fourth goal of the season to send Al-Nassr second in the Saudi Pro League after a 2-0 win over 10-man Al-Wehda.
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Al-Nassr beat Al-Wehda 2-0Ronaldo returns to starting XIHe and Gabriel score in winFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱TELL ME MORE
Al-Nassr secured an important league win over Al-Wehda on Friday evening.
After being repeatedly frustrated by an inspired Abdullah Al-Owaishir in the Al-Wehda goal, former Chelsea man Angelo Gabriel broke the deadlock in the 41st minute when his mis-hit cross nestled in the back of the net from the edge of the box.
The lively Sultan Al-Ghannam then won his side a penalty, one that captain Ronaldo – who was rested in their 2-1 win over Al-Hazm on Monday – dispatched in the 56th minute. Sadio Mane looked to have made it 3-0 late on, only for the goal to be chalked off as Ronaldo was offside in the build-up.
Waleed Bakshween was sent off four minutes from time as new manager Stefano Pioli enjoyed his third-straight win since replacing Luis Castro earlier this month.
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Despite Gabriel breaking Al-Wehda's stubborn resistance and Ronaldo scoring from the spot on his return to the starting lineup, winger Wesley was the brightest spark for Al-Nassr. The 19-year-old was too hot to handle for the visitors and on another day the Brazilian could have had a hat-trick – with one superb effort cruelly denied by the post. He may be key for them this season.
THE BIG LOSER
Although Al-Wehda were never going to mount a comeback late on, as they had just 34 per cent possession and four shots to the hosts' 18, Waleed Bakshween was given his marching orders for a reckless challenge in the 86th minute on Abdullah Al-Khaibari to end a difficult night for his team.
AFPWHAT COMES NEXT?
Al-Nassr will take a break from Saudi Pro League action when they host Al-Rayyan on Monday night for their second AFC Champions League match, before returning to take on Al-Orobah in the league on October 5.