On May 13, 2026, during Matchday 32 of the Saudi Pro League, Al Nassr faced arch-rivals Al Hilal in a high-stakes derby that could decide the title. With the top two teams separated by just a few points, Al Nassr started strong, taking the lead in the first half thanks to a goal from Simakan.
But the drama unfolded in the dying seconds of stoppage time. With only 20 seconds left on the clock, Al Nassr goalkeeper Bento attempted to secure a high ball from a throw-in. However, an accidental collision with a teammate left him off balance, and the ball slipped through his hands, rolling agonizingly into his own net. The shocking own goal handed Al Hilal a 1-1 draw, denying Al Nassr the chance to clinch the league title early.
Cristiano Ronaldo, who had been substituted earlier and was preparing to celebrate his first Saudi Pro League title, watched the nightmare unfold from the bench. Photographs showed the 41-year-old superstar sitting motionless, his face ashen, with tears welling in his reddened eyes as teammates and staff tried to console him. The moment was a stark contrast to the excitement just seconds earlier, as the club had been seconds away from lifting the trophy.
Ronaldo’s heartbreak was palpable, as he wandered off the field with his head bowed, the weight of the moment clearly visible. The draw means Al Nassr’s title celebrations are postponed, though they still hold a crucial lead at the top of the table heading into the final rounds.