Al-Nassr denies 99th-minute equaliser in friendly against Al-Ahli

Cristiano Ronaldo's side held to a thrilling 2-2 draw

Al-Nassr's hopes of a winning start under Cristiano Ronaldo were dashed on Thursday as they were held to a thrilling 2-2 draw by Al-Ahli in a friendly match. The Saudi Pro League champions twice took the lead through goals from Anderson Talisca and Luiz Gustavo, but Al-Ahli fought back to earn a share of the spoils thanks to strikes from Haitham Asiri and Sofiane Bendebka.

Ronaldo denied winning start

Ronaldo, who joined Al-Nassr on a free transfer from Manchester United last month, was handed the captain's armband for the match and played the full 90 minutes. The Portuguese forward had a few chances to score, but he was unable to find the net. Al-Ahli goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais made a string of fine saves to deny Ronaldo, including one from a free-kick in the second half.

Al-Nassr twice take the lead

Al-Nassr took the lead in the 12th minute when Talisca fired home a low shot from outside the box. Al-Ahli equalised in the 27th minute through Asiri, who headed home from close range after a cross from the right flank. Gustavo restored Al-Nassr's lead in the 51st minute with a powerful header from a corner.

Al-Ahli fight back to earn a draw

Al-Ahli refused to give up and they equalised for a second time in the 99th minute through Bendebka. The Algerian midfielder fired home a low shot from the edge of the box after a clever pass from Asiri.

Ronaldo's debut a mixed bag

Ronaldo's debut for Al-Nassr was a mixed bag. He showed glimpses of his quality, but he also missed a few chances to score. The Portuguese forward will be hoping to open his account for his new club in their next match, which is against Ettifaq on Sunday.

Al-Ahli show their quality

Al-Ahli showed that they are a team to be reckoned with in the Saudi Pro League. They played with great determination and spirit, and they were unlucky not to win the match. Al-Ahli will be confident of challenging for the title this season, and they will be a tough test for any team.