By contributing to Al Nasr’s 2-1 victory, striker Cristiano Ronaldo officially surpassed Messi’s scoring record for the number of goals scored not counting penalties.

Ronaldo opened the scoring in the 17th minute with a low shot into the bottom corner of the penalty area in the match between Al Nassr and Al Fateh in round 20 of the Saudi Pro League on the morning of February 18 (Vietnam time).

The Portuguese star thereby increased his total number of goals to 21 in the tournament this season and helped Al Nassr narrow the gap with leading team Al Hill to 4 points.

Ronaldo’s goal also helped him surpass rival Lionel Messi as the 38-year-old striker has now scored 715 goals, not counting penalties, in his career at club and national team levels.

Messi ranks behind Ronaldo with 714 goals excluding penalties, although this could soon change as the Argentine and Inter Miami star prepares to kick off the new MLS season next week.

Ronaldo has now scored 741 goals at club level in 995 appearances. The 5-time Golden Ball winner’s latest goal is also the 875th goal in his illustrious career, including 128 goals for Portugal.

CR7’s Saudi Pro League scoring record has also been extended to 5 consecutive matches. Despite winning countless titles during his time in Europe, the Portuguese star is still looking to add the Saudi Pro League championship to his trophy collection.