How science proved Ronaldo can score in complete darkness after ‘smoke’ goal vs Al Ahli

Cristiano Ronaldo has long been celebrated as the ultimate athlete, serving as a role model for aspiring generations in the realm of professional football and sports as a whole.

Among his many attributes as a footballer, none shine brighter than his exceptional goal-scoring prowess, which has led to countless milestones.

Throughout his career with Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and now Al-Nassr, Ronaldo has demonstrated the ability to score with nearly every part of his body, even in situations where his vision was compromised.

A recent example of this was his brace against Al-Ahli in the Saudi Pro League, where his opening goal came under pressure due to smoke from flares in the stands, Express reports.

While Ronaldo's precision amid the thick green smoke impressed many, the opposing goalkeeper, Edouard Mendy expressed frustration as he was unable to see through the haze.

Nevertheless, the goal was allowed and Al-Nassr secured a 4-3 victory in the thrilling contest.

This incident was not the first time the 38-year-old showcased his ability to find the back of the net in challenging conditions.

According to Bleacher Report, he notably scored a towering header against Paris Saint-Germain in the 2018 Champions League round of 16, demonstrating his exceptional skills even in adverse circumstances.

However, none of these goals can quite compare to his near-impossible goal in complete darkness.

Ronaldo scores in complete darkness

In 2011, Ronaldo participated in Castrol's Tested To The Limit documentary, excelling in unique challenges, per Sportsmanor.

One involved scoring in complete darkness, a test he found challenging but mastered effortlessly. Night-vision replays confirmed his success, while another participant struggled.

When questioned about the test, the veteran forward remarked:

"It's challenging because it brings significant changes. You concentrate on the ball, and then, in complete darkness, you must rely on your memory of it."

They thought the ???? would find it difficult to see the goal with all the smoke but I guess they weren’t familiar with his game ????????????????pic.twitter.com/3hybTk4xLj

— Al Nassr Zone (@TheNassrZone) September 23, 2023