In a stunning turn of events that has sent shockwaves through the Saudi Pro League, Al Nassr's perfect start to the 2025-26 season came to a crashing halt. The team led by global icon Cristiano Ronaldo suffered its first defeat, falling 2-1 to a resilient Al Ahli side powered by a brilliant brace from English striker Ivan Toney.
Toney's Masterclass Seals Historic Win for Al Ahli
The match, played on Saturday, February 15, 2025, will be remembered for Ivan Toney's clinical finishing. The former Brentford forward was in imperious form, netting both goals for Al Ahli and single-handedly dismantling Al Nassr's previously unbreachable defense. His performance underscored why he is considered one of the most lethal strikers in the league.
Al Nassr, who had won all their opening matches, entered the fixture as favourites. The presence of Cristiano Ronaldo always adds a layer of expectation. However, on this night, it was Toney who stole the spotlight. His goals came at crucial junctures, putting Al Ahli in the driver's seat and forcing Al Nassr to play catch-up for the majority of the game.
Al Nassr's Fightback Falls Short
Despite the setback, Al Nassr did not go down without a fight. They managed to pull a goal back, setting up a tense finale. The source of their consolation goal, however, was not their talismanic captain, Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portuguese superstar, while active and threatening, was kept relatively quiet by a disciplined Al Ahli backline, which managed to nullify his goal-scoring threat for the duration of the match.
This result is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it ends Al Nassr's unbeaten streak in the league this season, proving they are not invincible. Secondly, it provides a massive boost for Al Ahli's campaign, showcasing their capability to beat the very best. The three points earned from this victory are invaluable in the context of the title race.
Implications for the Saudi Pro League Title Race
The defeat introduces a new dynamic into the Saudi Pro League championship battle. While Al Nassr remains a formidable force at the top of the table, this loss opens the door for other contenders, including Al Ahli themselves. It sends a clear message that the league is highly competitive and that any team can be beaten on a given day.
For Ivan Toney, this match is a statement performance that will be talked about for weeks. Outshining a legend like Ronaldo on such a big stage cements his status as a marquee player in the Middle East. For Ronaldo and Al Nassr, it's a reality check and a reminder that maintaining consistency at the highest level is a relentless challenge.
The focus now shifts to how both teams respond. Al Nassr will be eager to bounce back immediately and reassert their dominance, while Al Ahli will look to use this momentum as a springboard for the rest of their season. The 2025-26 Saudi Pro League title race just got a lot more interesting.
