Cristiano Ronaldo’s return to Madrid was a difficult one. The Portuguese star was given little space by Atletico and only had two shots.
One of these was a quick snapshot from outside the area in the first half which was always going wide. The second was a free-kick which missed the target.
Anthony Elanga’s 80th minute goal secured a 1-1 draw and sent United’s away fans in Madrid wild.
Ronaldo was appreciative of the away support despite suggestions otherwise.
The Athletic wrote on Twitter: “Harry Maguire ushers players to applaud away fans. All go, but Cristiano Ronaldo already down tunnel.”
Ronaldo did in fact applaud supporters, as pictures show, and the Portugal international made that point very clear with a social media post which also thanked the fans.
Better days ahead
This was the first Champions League game this season Cristiano Ronaldo has played which he failed to score in. Considering the lack of service, he can’t be blamed too much for that.
The last time Ronaldo played Atletico in the Champions League group stages, he failed to score in the first leg, and then struck a hat-trick in the second leg. A repeat of that feat would do very nicely for Manchester United.
The return leg at Old Trafford is shaping up as a huge game for United, and Atletico too. Both teams’ seasons are riding on it.
The tie is evenly balanced and both teams will get players back, with Scott McTominay and Edinson Cavani likely available for United, while Koke, Luis Suarez and Antoine Griezmann could all start for Atletico. Game on.
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