Despite a stellar 2025, the new year has got off to a dismal start for Cristiano Ronaldo and his side. Al Nassr slumped to their third consecutive defeat of 2026 on Monday, January 12, falling 3-1 to rivals Al Hilal.

The high-voltage Saudi Pro League clash saw Al Nassr take an early lead in the 42nd minute.

Following a surging run down the left flank by Kingsley Coman, Ronaldo capitalized on the opportunity, finding the back of the net with a clinical volley.

Red Card Shifts Momentum

The tide turned sharply after the interval. Al Hilal were awarded a penalty when Al Nassr’s Mohamed Simakan fouled Malcom inside the box. Salem Al-Dawsari converted from the spot to level the scoring.

Drama intensified following the goal as a scuffle broke out between Al Nassr goalkeeper Nawaf Al-Aqidi and Al Hilal’s Rúben Neves during an attempt to restart play quickly.

After a VAR review, Al-Aqidi was shown a straight red card for violent conduct, reducing Al Nassr to ten men.

Al Hilal Seize Control

With the numerical advantage, Al Hilal took complete command of the match. Mohamed Kanno put the league leaders ahead in the 81st minute, before Rúben Neves sealed the victory with a second penalty deep into stoppage time.

With this win, Al Hilal have extended their lead at the top of the table to seven points. Meanwhile, Al Nassr remain in second place but are now winless in their last four matches—their longest drought since 2021.