Cristiano Ronaldo strikes in another final for Al Nassr: How his record measures up to Lionel Messi’s
Cristiano Ronaldo has built his legacy as one of soccer’s greatest goalscorers, delivering on the biggest stages and in decisive moments throughout his career. Now, with Al Nassr, he extended that record by finding the back of the net in yet another final, a feat that once again invites comparisons with Lionel Messi.
With the Saudi Super Cup on the line, Al Nassr faced Al Ahli in Hong Kong, with Ronaldo chasing his first official trophy since moving to the Middle East. The Portuguese star made an impact before halftime, calmly converting from the penalty spot in the 40th minute after a handball by Ali Majrashi.
Despite taking the lead, Al Nassr couldn’t close the deal. Al Ahli equalized twice to force a penalty shootout. Ronaldo converted his attempt, but Abdullah Al-Khaibari saw his effort saved by Edouard Mendy, and Wenderson Galeno buried the winning spot-kick to seal a 5-3 shootout victory for Al Ahli and delivering Ronaldo his third consecutive final loss.
Ronaldo and Messi’s record in finals
With his strike against Al Ahli, Ronaldo boosted his tally as one of the biggest goalscorers with 25 goals in 40 finals played, further proof of his consistency in clutch moments. Still, the Portuguese remains behind his longtime rival in this particular race.
Lionel Messi holds the all-time record for goals scored in finals, with 35 in 49 appearances. The Argentine last added to his count in 2023, when he opened the scoring for Inter Miami in the Leagues Cup final against Nashville SC, helping the club secure its first major trophy.
Since joining Al Nassr, Ronaldo has found the net in three finals—though only one brought silverware. He scored twice in the 2023 Arab Club Champions Cup final (unofficial trophy), which Al Nassr won, and added goals in back-to-back Saudi Super Cup finals, including the latest loss to Al Ahli.
Sitting between Ronaldo and Messi in the rankings is another legend: Brazilian icon Pelé, who scored 31 goals in finals. With both Ronaldo and Messi now in the twilight of their careers, it’s unlikely the standings will change. Still, their remarkable records remain a lasting testament to their impact on the game.