Cristiano Ronaldo has moved to within 15 goals of reaching 1,000 career strikes after scoring a hat-trick to inspire Al Nassr to victory over Al Kholood in the Saudi Pro League on Thursday.

The Portugal captain scored three times in the second half, taking his reported career goal tally to 985 and bringing him closer to one of the most significant milestones of his illustrious football career.

The 41-year-old forward found the net in the 66th, 72nd and 81st minutes to complete his treble and help Al Nassr claim all three points.

The victory also strengthened Al Nassr’s position in the league standings, with the club moving into second place on goal difference behind leaders Al Qadsiah.

Ronaldo’s latest performance comes as he continues his pursuit of 1,000 career goals, a landmark that would further distinguish his record as one of football’s most prolific goalscorers.

Al Kholood strike first

Al Kholood took the lead in the 16th minute through Dominguez, putting Al Nassr on the back foot early in the encounter.

Al Nassr responded through Ângelo Gabriel, who restored parity before Sadio Mané put the hosts ahead in the 38th minute.

However, Al Kholood refused to back down, with Essomba scoring to bring the visitors level before the half-time break.

The first half ended with both teams having scored twice, setting up an eventful second period.

Ronaldo delivers decisive performance

Ronaldo took control after the restart, scoring three goals in a 15-minute spell to put Al Nassr in a commanding position.

He opened his account in the 66th minute before adding another six minutes later. His third goal arrived in the 81st minute, completing his hat-trick and taking his career tally to 985.

The performance underlined the Portuguese forward’s continued importance to Al Nassr as the club pursues success in the Saudi Pro League.

Dominguez scored from the penalty spot in the 94th minute to complete his brace for Al Kholood, but the late effort could not prevent the visitors from losing.

Al Nassr move up the standings

The result moved Al Nassr into second place in the Saudi Pro League standings on goal difference, with Al Qadsiah remaining at the top.

The victory provided a boost for Al Nassr as the league campaign continues, while Ronaldo’s three-goal performance placed renewed focus on his pursuit of the 1,000-goal landmark.

With his reported tally now at 985, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner needs 15 more goals to reach the milestone.

Ronaldo has maintained a prolific scoring record throughout his career at club and international level. His latest hat-trick adds another chapter to that record as he continues to chase a target few players in the history of the game have approached.