RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA – The AFC Champions League witnessed yet another masterstroke from Cristiano Ronaldo as the Portuguese superstar delivered a late winner to guide Al-Nassr to a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Al-Fayha in the first leg of their last-16 clash.

Al-Nassr dictated the tempo from the outset, enjoying ample possession and dictating terms against a resolute Al-Fayha defence. Ronaldo, ever the catalyst, nearly unlocked the deadlock just before half-time with a trademark burst into the box, only to be denied by the goalkeeper. Aymeric Laporte, too, squandered a gilt-edged chance, leaving Al-Nassr frustrated despite their dominance.

The second half continued in a similar vein, with Al-Nassr probing relentlessly. Ronaldo remained at the heart of the action, launching a surging run into the box before seeing his shot blocked. Anderson Talisca also came close, but his effort sailed narrowly wide.

Just as doubts began to creep in, Ronaldo silenced the crowd with a moment of magic. In the 81st minute, a well-crafted move involving Marcelo Brozovic culminated in the ball reaching the Portuguese talisman, who coolly slotted home the winner, sending the Al-Nassr faithful into raptures.

This crucial victory puts Al-Nassr in a strong position heading into the second leg, but Al-Fayha cannot be underestimated. Ronaldo, once again, proved his enduring influence on the biggest stage, and his performance will serve as a significant confidence boost for the Riyadh-based side as they seek to progress further in the competition.