Clash of Legends: Ronaldo vs. Benzema Lights Up Saudi Football
Football fans witnessed a blockbuster showdown on October 28, 2025, as
Al Nassr faced off against
Al Ittihad in the Saudi King’s Cup last 16—a match that pitted two of the world’s biggest stars, Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema, against each other. The result? Benzema’s Al Ittihad edged out Ronaldo’s Al Nassr with a dramatic 2-1 victory, sending shockwaves through the Saudi football scene and leaving Ronaldo’s side out of another domestic tournament.
Benzema Shines, Ronaldo Left Frustrated
The match was billed as a clash of egos and old partnerships, with both teams stacked with international talent. Benzema, the former Real Madrid striker, proved decisive for Al Ittihad, scoring and leading his team to a hard-fought win. Ronaldo, meanwhile, continued his impressive goal-scoring form in the Saudi Pro League but couldn’t rescue Al Nassr from elimination in the cup fixture.
Al Nassr, under new manager Gor Jesus, have been flying high in the league, suffering just one defeat in their last 12 matches across all competitions—until this cup upset. Ronaldo, desperate to add silverware to his Saudi adventure, was visibly frustrated after the loss, breaking his silence on social media and urging his team to focus on the league title.
Saudi League’s Star Power and Ambitions
This high-profile encounter is just the latest example of the Saudi Pro League’s transformation into a global football hotspot. Backed by massive investment, clubs like Al Nassr and Al Ittihad have recruited elite players, turning the league into a magnet for international attention. The influx of stars—Ronaldo, Benzema, Neymar, and more—has raised the quality and competitiveness, making every clash a must-watch event.
What’s Next for Al Nassr and Al Ittihad?
With Al Nassr out of the King’s Cup, all eyes turn to their league campaign. Ronaldo remains a talisman, averaging a goal per game and driving his team’s push for the title. Al Ittihad, meanwhile, will look to build on their cup success and climb the league table after a string of setbacks.
Key Takeaways
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Al Ittihad defeated Al Nassr 2-1 in the Saudi King’s Cup last 16, with Benzema outshining Ronaldo.
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Ronaldo’s Al Nassr now shift focus to the league title after another cup disappointment.
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Saudi Pro League’s star-studded transformation continues to attract global attention and reshape Asian football.
As the season unfolds, expect more fireworks from these two giants—and more drama as football’s biggest names battle for supremacy in Saudi Arabia.
Sources
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5. Cristiano Ronaldo breaks silence after Al Nassr’s King’s Cup loss to Karim Benzema’s Al Ittihad
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7. Al Nassr vs Al Ittihad (1-2) | Saudi King's Cup 25/26 Highlights
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