Cristiano Ronaldo sends message to Saudi Pro League rivals after second hat-trick in four days

Cristiano Ronaldo has issued a rallying cry to his Al Nassr teammates: they remain in contention for the title..

It comes after the 39-year-old scored his second hat-trick in four days in the 8-0 win over Abha on Tuesday night.

This victory maintains the pressure on the Saudi leader of the Pro League, Al Hilal.

With only seven matches remaining in this Gulf country, Al Nassr is 12 points behind Al Hilal.

Ronaldo’s side still have to face Jorge Jesus’ side in the league, and they will also meet in the semi-final of the Saudi Super Cup next week.

And in a passionate message on Instagram, the five-time Ballon d’Or insisted that everything was decided.

Posting a series of celebratory photos of the Knights of Najd’s latest victory, Ronaldo simply declared: “We’re not slowing down!”

Unsurprisingly, Al Nasst boss Luis Castro raved about the Portuguese captain after the clash.

He said: “Ronaldo works collectively with the team and shines regardless of the team situation.

“He is very influential and a positive example for all players.”

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Despite being in the twilight of his career, Ronaldo has scored 36 goals and 12 assists in all competitions this season.

Following his hat-trick this weekend, the former Manchester United striker was named Saudi Arabian Pro League Player of the Month for March.

His gong arrived just days after he was told he was no longer Portugal’s best player ahead of Euro 2024.

Ronaldo’s latest hat-trick takes his career hat-trick tally to 65, with the striker closing in on 900 goals.

Incredibly, 35 of her triplets have occurred since she turned 30.