Al Ahli Edge Al Nassr on Penalties to Win Saudi Super Cup

Mendy decisive as Ronaldo scores 100th Al Nassr goal

Al Ahli picked up the first silverware of the 2025-26 Saudi football season after beating Al Nassr 5-3 on penalties in the Saudi Super Cup final in Hong Kong.

Cristiano Ronaldo, making yet another mark on Saudi football, had opened the scoring with a first-half penalty to register his 100th goal for Al Nassr. The spot-kick, awarded for handball against Ali Majrashi, was struck firmly down the middle, adding to the Portuguese legend's record tally.

Al Ahli responded through captain Franck Kessie, who curled in a fine equaliser deep into first-half stoppage time. The Cote d’Ivoire midfielder, already a semi-final hero, kept his side firmly in contention.

The second half produced drama at both ends. Ronaldo forced Édouard Mendy into a sharp stop, while Feras Al Buraikan rattled the post from close range for Al Ahli. With eight minutes remaining, Marcelo Brozovic dispossessed Kessie in his own area and finished superbly to restore Al Nassr’s lead.

Just when the win seemed certain, Roger Ibanez rose highest in the 89th minute to head home Galeno’s corner, taking the final to a shootout.

There, penalties were dispatched calmly until Mendy saved from Abdullah Al Khaibari. Galeno then stepped forward to convert the winning kick, sealing a famous win.

For Al Ahli, who lifted the AFC Champions League Elite in May, the cup represents another statement of intent ahead of the new Roshn Saudi League season. For Al Nassr, despite Ronaldo’s century, the defeat undelined the fine margins that separate glory from disappointment.

Édouard Mendy lifts the Super Cup for Al Ahli

Ronaldo hits his signature celebration after scoring the opening goal

Al Ahli captain Franck Kessie (R) celebrates his goal