Portuguese forward, Cristiano Ronaldo, scored a hat-trick as Al-Nassr defeated Al Kholood 5-3 in the Saudi Pro League on Thursday.

The 41-year-old’s three goals took his career tally to 985, leaving him 15 goals away from reaching the 1,000-goal milestone.

Ronaldo scored all three goals in the second half after Al-Nassr and Al Kholood went into the break level at 2-2.

The visitors took the lead through Julien Domingues before Angelo equalised for Al-Nassr. Sadio Mane then put the home side ahead, but Loic Essomba restored parity before half-time.

Ronaldo put Al-Nassr ahead in the 66th minute following an assist from compatriot Joao Felix.

He doubled his tally six minutes later, again benefiting from Felix’s contribution, before completing his hat-trick in the 81st minute to seal the victory.

Domingues scored another goal for Al Kholood late in the game, but Al-Nassr held on to secure all three points.

The victory took Al-Nassr to 28 points, level with Al-Qadsiah at the top of the Saudi Pro League table, with Al-Nassr having played one game fewer.

Ronaldo’s hat-trick came a day after he was voted the greatest Ballon d’Or winner of all time in a fan poll known as the B.O.A.T. award.

The Portuguese international finished ahead of his long-time rival, Lionel Messi, whose 2012 Ballon d’Or-winning season placed second in the poll.

Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d’Or winner, continues to pursue the 1,000-goal mark as he extends his scoring record for club and country.

Stay connected with The Sun Newspaper

Get breaking news, exclusive stories, and live updates delivered straight to your phone. Join thousands of readers already following us on Whatsapp Channel and Telegram.