SPL: ‘Cheating and Still Losing’ — Al-Ittihad Mocks Ronaldo, Al-Nassr After Defeat

Al-Ittihad mocked Cristiano Ronaldo and Al-Nassr after defeating the Saudi Pro League champions 2-1 in the Saudi Pro League on Saturday.

The victory ended Al-Nassr’s perfect start to the campaign and handed Ange Postecoglou his first defeat since taking charge of the club. Al-Nassr had won their opening four league matches before the setback.

French forward George Ilenikhena was the decisive figure for Al-Ittihad, scoring twice in the first half to put the hosts in control. His goals gave the home side a 2-0 advantage before Al-Nassr responded after the break.

Brazilian forward Angelo Gabriel pulled one goal back for Al-Nassr, but the visitors could not complete the comeback despite creating opportunities.

Ronaldo played the full 90 minutes but failed to score, as Al-Nassr lost ground in the title race. The Portuguese captain had chances during the match but was unable to convert them into goals.

The defeat left Al-Nassr on 12 points from five matches, three points behind league leaders Al-Hilal. Al-Ittihad moved into fourth place with 11 points after securing an important victory over the defending champions.

After the final whistle, Al-Ittihad used social media to mock Ronaldo and his teammates. The club posted an image of Ronaldo appearing to look at tactical instructions being held by Al-Ittihad defender Danilo Pereira, accompanied by the caption, “Cheating and still losing.”

The incident occurred during the match when Ronaldo appeared to peek at a tactics sheet held by Danilo, his former Portugal teammate. Danilo noticed the gesture and playfully showed Ronaldo the sheet, creating a light-hearted moment despite the intensity of the derby.

Al-Ittihad’s post quickly attracted attention online, with supporters reacting to the club’s playful dig at one of the most recognisable players in world football.

The defeat represents an early setback for Postecoglou, whose Al-Nassr side had begun the season strongly. The team will now look to respond when they return to league action against Abha.

Al-Ittihad, meanwhile, will seek to build on the victory when they face Al-Fayha next, hoping the result can strengthen their challenge near the top of the Saudi Pro League. The result also intensified attention around Ronaldo, whose leadership and performances remain central to Al-Nassr’s ambitions.