Saudi Super Cup: Fans Applaud Ronaldo for Rare Unselfish Play Against Al Ittihad
- Cristiano Ronaldo drew widespread praise for his selfless display in Al-Nassr’s Saudi Super Cup showdown against Al-Ittihad
- Fans flooded social media with admiration, with one remarking, “GOAT doing goat things”
- His performance helped the Knights of Najd secure victory and book a place in the final, where they await either Al-Qadisiyah or Al-Ahli
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Cristiano Ronaldo did not find the back of the net in Al-Nassr’s tense Saudi Super Cup clash with Al Ittihad, yet it was his rare act of generosity that stole the headlines and warmed the hearts of fans.
Often painted as a player obsessed with personal glory, the Portuguese superstar flipped that script on Tuesday in Hong Kong, showing a side many critics claim he lacks.
Source: Getty Images
Ronaldo's unselfish act against Al Ittihad
With the match delicately balanced and the chance to seal victory at his feet, Ronaldo broke free on goal.
The stage seemed set for the 40-year-old to deliver the knockout blow himself.
But instead of taking the shot, he squared the ball to Joao Felix, who had the simplest of tasks: roll it into an empty net.
Felix, fresh from joining Al-Nassr after leaving Chelsea, made no mistake, according to GOAL.
His calm finish not only opened his scoring account for the Knights of Najd but also proved decisive, sealing a 2-1 triumph over an Ittihad side boasting Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kante and Fabinho.
Watch the video:
For Al-Nassr, the win keeps their dream of lifting the Saudi Super Cup alive.
But for many watching, the real story was Ronaldo’s choice to put the team first.
It was a small gesture, yet symbolic, a moment that painted him as more than a goal-hungry forward.
Source: Getty Images
Fans praise Ronaldo for his unselfishness
Fans on X could not hide their admiration, with many rushing to highlight the significance of Ronaldo’s assist.
@Thechelseafcguy wrote:
"Ronaldo has always been a selfless player who looks after his teammates. Congrats to them on winning this one."
@Just1_gentle added:
"CR7 has gotten everything he wanted; why not help others achieve their goals? Ronaldo is a loving person. 💛🧡💛💛"
@Art_king2 could not resist comparing him to his eternal rival:
"Legend. Unlike that short greedy dude."
@crypticworld7 simply hailed:
"GOAT doing goat things."
@Fandix__ looked at the bigger picture:
"Good to see that; it improves team spirit."
And @Smile_6922 summed it up perfectly:
"Respect to Ronaldo, Felix needed that goal."
Ronaldo and his Al-Nassr teammates now shift focus to Saturday’s final on August 23, where they will lock horns with either Al-Qadsiyah or Al-Ahli SC.
A win would deliver Ronaldo his first major trophy since moving to Saudi Arabia, a milestone he has relentlessly pursued since joining the Knights of Najd after the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Joao Felix grateful for Ronaldo’s support
Joao Felix has thanked Cristiano Ronaldo privately in the dressing room after the match, describing the assist as a “confidence-booster” and admitting it helped him settle quickly at his new club.
Several Al-Nassr teammates also praised Ronaldo’s leadership, saying his willingness to pass instead of score shows how focused he is on helping the team win trophies this season. Club insiders say the dressing room atmosphere has improved since his arrival, and moments like this prove why the younger players look up to him.
Some fans have pointed out that he is now becoming more of a mentor than a pure goalscorer, guiding others and lifting their confidence every time he steps on the pitch. Others added that the veteran’s reaction after the goal, sprinting over to celebrate with Felix and pointing at him, was a simple but powerful gesture that showed trust.
Many supporters believe this bond will only grow stronger as the season continues and could be the key to Al-Nassr’s success in the league and cup competitions.
Ronaldo reacts on social media after Ballon d'Or exclusion
Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported on Cristiano Ronaldo’s reaction on social media after being left out of the 2025 Men’s Ballon d’Or shortlist.
For the second straight year, neither he nor his long-time rival Lionel Messi made the cut.
Source: YEN.com.gh
