Cristiano Ronaldo scored the opening goal as Al-Nassr triumphed over Ettifaq 3-0 in a Saudi Pro League match on Friday.
This match marked the first victory for Stefano Pioli as the new coach of Al-Nassr. Pioli, who previously led AC Milan to the Serie A title in 2022, replaced Luis Castro on Wednesday. The team's disappointing start to the season led to Castro's departure.
Ronaldo, who missed Al-Nassr's recent 1-1 draw with Al-Shorta due to a viral infection, converted a penalty in the 33rd minute, marking his third goal of the season. Salem Al-Najdi and Anderson Talisca added two more goals in the second half.
The loss was Ettifaq's first of the season, though they remain in third place under the management of Steven Gerrard.
Al-Nassr's victory moved them to fourth place. Al-Ahli holds fifth place after Ivan Toney scored twice in their 4-2 win against Damac.
Toney, signed from Brentford in August, assisted Gabri Veiga for the opener before scoring his first goals for Al-Ahli. Former Liverpool player Roberto Firmino also scored.
Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad, currently first and second in the standings, are set to play each other on Saturday.
