Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini came close to securing a famous win over Manchester United.
And then Cristiano Ronaldo stepped in to score a stunning late volley.
Ronaldo is an unstoppable force who never knows when to quit.
The goal secured a 2-2 draw for United and kept Atalanta in third place in the group, two points behind the Red Devils and Villarreal.
Gasperini was asked after the game how he felt, and responded via TMW: “I’m fine, it was a fantastic evening even if it’s a shame for Ronaldo’s prowess at the end.”
Praise for Ronaldo
Ronaldo was seen embracing Gasperini after the game and the manager explained what was said.
Gasperini was quoted by Fanpage.IT: “I’ll tell you what I told him, you could have stayed at Juve… But he also scored [against] me at Juve
“He’s incredible, a crazy player. Nine times out of ten he hits the goal.”
“In the end I said something in Italian, but I don’t know if it can be said… go to that country.”
Gasperini was in good spirits for a man who had just been done over by Ronaldo, but in the presence of greatness, sometimes there is little that can be done about it.
As he notes, Ronaldo is heading back to England now and Gasperini won’t have to worry about him scoring against him again, even if the memories may cause a few sleepless nights.
Atalanta were so close to a famous win over United, which would have taken them to the top of the group.
Ronaldo’s late goal changes everything, but Atalanta’s task is still in their own hands.
They face Young Boys next before what could be a decisive game against Villarreal.
United can seal qualification with a win over Villarreal in the next match, with one game to spare against Young Boys.
A loss to Atalanta would have meant United were one defeat away from instant elimination.
Thankfully we have Ronaldo. Without him we would be rooted to the bottom of the group.
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