Ronaldo scores 979th career goal, nears 1000 milestone

Cristiano Ronaldo scored his 979th career goal on Wednesday, a header that helped Al Nassr secure a 2-1 victory over Abha in the Saudi Pro League. The 41-year-old Portuguese forward opened the scoring in the 22nd minute, rising to meet an Angelo corner and directing a firm header past Abha goalkeeper Donovan Leon. The goal, which struck the post before crossing the line, brings Ronaldo within 21 goals of the 1,000-goal milestone, a landmark no player has officially reached in competitive senior football. This latest strike marks Ronaldo's third goal in five league appearances this season and his 132nd for Al Nassr since joining the club. The milestone's pursuit has gained added urgency as Ronaldo has recently suggested that the current 2026-27 campaign could be his final season as a professional footballer. At his current scoring rate, he has a realistic path to reach 1,000 goals across Al Nassr's remaining fixtures in the Saudi Pro League, the Kings Cup, and the AFC Champions League Elite, as well as potential appearances for Portugal in the UEFA Nations League. The match saw Al Nassr dominate possession, creating clearer opportunities against newly promoted Abha.