Ronaldo reflects on his return to Madrid

Thursday 24 February 2022 09:06

Cristiano Ronaldo has thanked the Manchester United fans for such incredible support throughout our Champions League last-16 first leg against Atletico Madrid.

The Reds conceded an early Joao Felix goal in a disappointing first half at the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium but produced an improved performance after the break to earn a valuable 1-1 draw, thanks mainly to substitute Anthony Elanga’s cool equaliser with his very first touch of the game. 

Ralf Rangnick’s men were buoyed by that riposte and, against a tiring home side, searched for a second goal in the closing moments, with replacement Jesse Lingard going closest with a driven shot. 

In the end, United settled for a very decent 1-1 draw that sets up a tantalising second leg at Old Trafford in March, with a place in the competition’s quarter-finals well and truly up for grabs. 
Highlights: Atletico Madrid v United Video

Highlights: Atletico Madrid v United

Here's a reminder of how the first leg unfolded in our Champions League last-16 tie...

It was a significant evening for Ronaldo, of course, returning to Madrid and the city he called home for nine years while representing Atletico’s local rivals Real, at the nearby Bernabeu Stadium.

“Always a great feeling to be back in Madrid, one of the few cities in the world that I‘ve learned to call “home”,” writes Ronaldo in an Instagram post to his 405 million followers.

“Great feelings, great players, great game, this is the Champions League! The mother of all club competitions! 

“Now we have the opportunity to close this for us in our stadium, showing everybody why Old Trafford is and will always be The Theatre Of Dreams. Last but not least, thanks to our amazing supporters! Your presence make us stronger, and together we will go forward! Let’s go, Devils!”

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