Sadio Mane: Ex-Liverpool Star Reacts After Leading Al Nassr to Victory Over Al Fahya in Cristiano Ronaldo’s Absence
Football
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Al-Nassr reached the final of Saudi Arabian knockout tournament, the King's Cup, thanks to a Cristiano Ronaldo double and a solitary strike from Sadio Mane on Wednesday, May 1.
Following last season's setback in the semi-finals against Al-Wehda, the Knights of Najd were clearly determined to avoid a repeat, notching a convincing 3-1 win over their opponents.
In front of an enthusiastic home crowd at Al-Awwal Park, Luis Castro's men made early attempts to break the deadlock, with Portuguese duo, Ronaldo and Otavio, testing the Al-Khaleej defence, only to be denied by Ibrahim Sehic.
Sadio Mane: Ex-Liverpool Star Reacts After Leading Al Nassr to Victory Over Al Fahya in Cristiano Ronaldo’s Absence
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However, the veteran forward's left-footed volley in the 17th minute found the back of the net, marking his first goal in four appearances for the Riyadh-based club and giving his team the lead, per SportBIBLE.
Subsequently, when awarded a penalty, Ronaldo selflessly passed the opportunity to Mane, who confidently doubled the home side's advantage with an expertly taken spot kick, beIN Sports reports.
Despite a goal from Saudi international, Aiman Yahya, being disallowed by the Video Assistant Referee just before half-time, Ronaldo extended the lead with his second goal, capitalising on a loose ball in the box three minutes before the hour mark.
Although Fawaz Al-Torais scored a consolation goal for Al-Khaleej, it was not enough to change the outcome, as Ronaldo and his teammates secured the crucial win, setting up a final showdown with Al-Hilal.
Sadio Mane: The Hilarious Moment Commentator Trolls Al Nassr Star for Missing Penalty
FootballIn the other semi-final, the Blue Waves overcame Al-Ittihad, setting the stage for what promises to be an enthralling Grand Finale.
Sports Brief also reported on fans lauding Ronaldo for his selfless act during Al-Nassr's semi-final tie against Al Khaleej, handing over penalty-taking duties to teammate, Mane.
Despite facing accusations of being a self-centered player, the 39-year-old surprised many with his gesture, clearly attempting to emphasise team success over personal accolades.