Al-Nassr coach Jorge Jesus explained that Cristiano Ronaldo played while unwell in the narrow win over Al-Ettifaq. Despite the health concern, Al-Nassr collected a 1-0 victory in the Saudi Pro League on Wednesday, extending an already long winning sequence and keeping control of the title race.

The only goal arrived in the 31st minute, when Kingsley Coman finished from close range. The move started with a powerful strike from Ronaldo that the goalkeeper could not handle. Shortly after, the 41-year-old forward struck the woodwork, underlining constant involvement in Al-Nassr’s attacking play.

Al-Nassr moved eight points clear at the top of the Saudi Pro League with this result. The club recorded a 15th consecutive league victory, maintaining strong momentum. Ronaldo’s influence remained clear, even while feeling sick, as Al-Ettifaq struggled to limit chances during long spells of pressure.

The Portugal captain attempted 10 shots, five more than any other player on the pitch. Three efforts tested the goalkeeper directly, while Ronaldo stayed on until the 89th minute. Jorge Jesus later confirmed that stomach problems affected Ronaldo throughout the game, yet Al-Nassr still relied on sustained output.

Speaking after the match, Jorge Jesus detailed the situation with his leading forward. “I was thinking of not including him; he wasn’t in good shape, Jorge Jesus said of Ronaldo. He was suffering from stomach pains and a general feeling of fatigue and, when I substituted him, he went straight to the dressing room and threw up.” Ronaldo’s contribution in this campaign remained high, with 24 Pro League goals already scored for Al-Nassr.