Brighton boss Graham Potter said in the build-up to last night’s clash against Manchester United that he was looking forward to pitting his wits against Cristiano Ronaldo.
After his side lost 2-0 against Ralf Rangnick’s side at Old Trafford, the former Swansea City manager accepted that his side were punished by the “world-class” Ronaldo.
Speaking after the game via Sky Sports, Potter said: “We get punished from a world-class finish by a world-class player.
“That is what we are facing.”
Coming into the game with no goals from his last six games and his longest drought for 13 years, the 37-year-old produced a clinical finish at a crucial time.
After picking up the ball from Scott McTominay, United’s number seven drifted past a couple of Brighton players before unleashing a dipping snapshot that left a stricken Robert Sanchez with no chance.
The relief and frustration in Ronaldo’s celebration was clear to see. Every time he has been written off or questioned throughout his career, he has always produces a response.
Last night was no different and with Leeds and Atletico Madrid to come, Ronaldo’s 15th goal of the season hopefully proves to be the turning point in United’s season.
Ronaldo’s strike against the Seagulls meant he has now scored against 168 different opponents in his career for club and country.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner will be looking to make it 169 when United travel to Elland Road on Sunday.
Cristiano Ronaldo has also netted at least once in each of the last 21 calendar years stretching back to 2002.
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