Al Nassr has made a significant strategic shift in their sporting agenda by appointing Jorge Jesus as their new head coach, following his impressive tenure at Al Hilal. Since taking the helm, Jesus has successfully instilled an attractive style of play, guiding Al Nassr on a remarkable unbeaten streak in the Saudi Pro League. As they prepare to face Al Ettifaq, the team is eager to finish the year 2025 on a high note, with fans keenly observing Cristiano Ronaldo’s fitness ahead of the match.
Ronaldo, who has been injury-free in recent outings, is set to start against Al Ettifaq. He currently shares the top scorer position in the league with João Félix, each having scored 12 goals. The veteran forward also aims to extend his scoring streak to nine consecutive matches, showcasing his remarkable form and consistency.
While Al Nassr is viewed as the favorite in this matchup, Al Ettifaq has demonstrated their potential to make an impact, thanks to players like Georginio Wijnaldum and Khalid Al Ghannam leading their offense. They come into the game riding a four-match unbeaten streak, though defensive challenges persist, as Al Ettifaq has one of the league’s highest goals conceded.
Should Al Nassr secure a victory today, coach Jorge Jesus would achieve an impressive eleven consecutive wins in the Saudi Pro League, solidifying their position as league leaders and ending 2025 ahead of second-placed Al Taawon by a five-point margin. This win could bring Ronaldo closer to his first title with Al Nassr, while also setting the stage for a strong performance as they move into 2026.
As for Al Ettifaq, they are optimistic entering the match, coming off two consecutive wins, led by Wijnaldum. With only João Costa missing from their lineup, coach Saad Al-Shehri has a fully fit squad aimed at clinching an upset against the powerhouse squad of Al Nassr. Key players like Moussa Dembélé, Francisco Calvo, and Álvaro Medrán are expected to contribute offensively.
Al Nassr, however, faces challenges with notable absences from their usual lineup, with injuries sidelining Mohamed Simakan and Ayman Yahya, and Sadio Mané unavailable due to participation in AFCON with Senegal. Undeterred, coach Jorge Jesus still plans to field a strong side, featuring Kingsley Coman, João Félix, and of course, Cristiano Ronaldo.
As the match approaches, the excitement is palpable, with both teams having much to prove and achieve.