JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia, January 3, 2026 — Ivan Toney’s first-half brace propelled Al-Ahli to a dramatic 3-2 victory over Al Nassr on Friday, handing the Cristiano Ronaldo-led league leaders their first loss of the Saudi Pro League season. The result at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium opens the door for rivals Al Hilal to claim the top spot.
How did Al-Ahli secure the victory against Al Nassr?
Al-Ahli dominated early, with Ivan Toney scoring twice in the first 20 minutes. He tapped in a seventh-minute cross from Galeno and later slotted home a through ball from Ali Majrashi. After Al Nassr fought back to 2-2 via two Abdulelah Al Amri goals, Al-Ahli sealed the win in the 55th minute when Merih Demiral headed in a Toney-assisted chance. The match ended with two red cards in stoppage time.
Who were the key performers in the match?
English striker Ivan Toney was the undisputed star, scoring two goals and assisting the winner for Al-Ahli. For Al Nassr, center-back Abdulelah Al Amri was the unlikely hero, scoring both goals to bring his team level. Al Nassr’s star forward Cristiano Ronaldo had a quiet night, with only one notable off-target header.
Let’s goooooo 👏💚#AlAhli #RoshnSaudiLeague pic.twitter.com/lEvlQh5nH6
— Al-Ahli Saudi Club (@ALAHLI_FCEN) January 2, 2026
What was the turning point in the match?
The pivotal moment came early in the second half. With the score level at 2-2, Ivan Toney’s acrobatic flick from a Matheus Goncalves free-kick found defender Merih Demiral, who headed home from close range in the 55th minute. Al Nassr dominated possession after but failed to find an equalizer.
What does this result mean for the Saudi Pro League title race?
Ivan Toney (2) and Merih Demiral scored for Al-Ahli, while Abdulelah Al Amri (2) scored for Al Nassr. If rivals Al Hilal defeat Damac on January 4, they will have an opportunity to go up to top spot. Al-Ahli’s victory also narrows their gap to the top four, moving them closer to third-placed Al Taawoun.
What was the late drama in the match?
Frustrations boiled over in stoppage time, resulting in red cards for both sides. Al-Ahli’s Ali Majrashi was sent off for slapping Joao Felix, and Al Nassr’s Nawaf Boushal received a red for a foul as the last man.
FAQs:
Q: What was the final score between Al Nassr and Al-Ahli?
A: Abdulelah Al Amri (2) scored for Al Nassr, while Ivan Toney (2) and Merih Demiral scored for Al-Ahli.
Q: Did Cristiano Ronaldo score in the match?
A: No, Cristiano Ronaldo did not score. He had a quiet game, with his only notable chance being an off-target header.
Q: Where was the match played?
A: The match was played at the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
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