Ronaldo: It was like a rugby match

Cristiano Ronaldo was upset about the tackle that forced him off the pitch minutes from the end of the 2-1 victory over Ludogorets.

In fact, that the Real Madrid striker likened it to something that would have happened on a rugby pitch.

“It was an intentional kick and we’ll see tomorrow how it is, but it’s a little open at the moment,” he told gathered media afterwards.

“It was a very ugly tackle and it seemed as if we were playing a game of rugby, but the most important thing is we got the three points and are now half-way towards qualifying for the next stage.”

Carlo Ancelotti’s men conceded yet another set-piece goal when the Bulgarians opened the scoring early on, but Ronaldo dismissed it as just one of those things.

“These things can happen in football and nobody’s perfect. We try to give a good response in all our actions and we’ll try to improve.

“What matters is that we won at a ground that is very difficult to come to. They are a good team with good players and almost won at Liverpool, but tonight I can’t recall them having too many great chances.

“We did well. It wasn’t a great game but we achieved our objective,” he added.

Regarding his penalty miss with the score at 1-0, Ronaldo put it down to the skill of goalkeeper Vladislav Stoyanov, although he did make amends later when he converted a second spot-kick opportunity.

“I don’t know if I missed it or the ‘keeper saved it. Goalkeepers also stop penalties so congratulations must be given, but with the second one his arm fell a little short.”

The former Manchester United man was asked about boss Ancelotti’s words of praise this week, when he described Ronaldo as the  ‘best player I have ever coached’. ’.

“For me his words are always welcome because they come from a man who has coached the best teams in the world. I thanked him for it yesterday.

“This commits me even more to the Real Madrid shirt and I want to help the club achieve all its goals,” replied Ronaldo, who was invited to comment on the banner flown over El Madrigal by United fans at the weekend, imploring him to ‘come home’.

“I’ve always said that in Manchester I have a family but right now I’m fine and I want to stay here.

“I’m glad they hold me in so much affection and it makes me very happy.”

Tags Cristiano Ronaldo Ludogorets
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