In a thrilling night of football in the Saudi Professional League, Mexican striker Julian Quiñones' goal against Al-Najma was more than just a fluke; it signaled a shift in the balance of power in this season's top scorer race. After finding the net in Al-Qadisiyah's match against Al-Najma on Sunday evening, Quiñones not only contributed to his team's valuable 3-1 victory but also established himself as a joint top scorer with global superstar Cristiano Ronaldo.
A meteoric rise in an exceptional season
Quinones increased his goal tally to 16, equaling the record held by Portuguese legend Cristiano Ronaldo, captain of Al-Nassr. With this achievement, the Mexican striker broke his tie with Englishman Ivan Tony, the Al-Ahli striker, who dropped to third place with 15 goals. This impressive performance reflects Quinones' exceptional season, during which he has proven to be a top-class signing for Al-Qadisiyah. He has become an indispensable element in their attacking system thanks to his decisive ability and versatility in scoring goals, whether with his feet or his head, from open play or set pieces.
Top scorer race in a global league
The race for the Golden Boot in the Saudi Professional League is no longer just a local competition; it has taken on a global dimension with the arrival of football's biggest stars. The presence of a name like Cristiano Ronaldo, a benchmark for goal-scoring excellence in any league he plays in, gives this race immense media and fan attention. Kenonese's challenge for the top spot not only highlights his individual talent but also reflects the growing competitiveness of the Saudi league, which has become capable of attracting players who can compete on equal footing with the world's best. This fierce competition elevates the quality of the tournament and makes it a focus of attention for fans worldwide.
The impact of competition on players and teams
The fierce competition for the top scorer title has implications that extend far beyond individual statistics. Domestically, this race creates a palpable sense of anticipation and excitement among Saudi fans, increasing the importance of every match played by the contenders. Internationally, the brilliance of a player like Quinones in the face of Ronaldo's success further enhances the Saudi league's reputation as a magnet for footballing talent. While Ronaldo and Quinones currently lead the pack, Ivan Toni (15 goals) and Al-Taawoun's Roger Martinez (14 goals) remain firmly in pursuit, promising a thrilling and closely contested final few weeks until the top scorer is finally decided in the closing rounds of the season.
Top scorers table for the Roshan League 2025/26 up to round 18:
- 16 goals: Cristiano Ronaldo (Al-Nassr)
- 16 goals: Julian Kenonese (Al-Qadisiyah)
- 15 goals: Ivan Toni (Al Ahly)
- 14 goals: Roger Martinez (Al-Taawoun)
