United In Focus marks the 23rd anniversary of Ronaldo’s hat-trick against Manchester United, which prompted a unique reaction from the Old Trafford faithful in 2003.
For once, the mention of Ronaldo had nothing to do with Cristiano Ronaldo, who enjoyed two spells at Manchester United, scoring 145 goals.
‘The Brazilian Ronaldo’ or ‘R9’, as he is commonly known, is one of the greatest centre-forwards of all time.
Ronaldo faced United three times in the Champions League, only scoring in one of those outings.
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Ronaldo hat-trick led to ovation from Man Utd fans
When United took on Real Madrid at Old Trafford in the 2003 Champions League quarter-finals, Vicente del Bosque’s side had a 3-1 lead from the first leg in the Spanish capital.
The second leg was a 4-3 thriller with United winning, but it sadly saw Sir Alex Ferguson’s side exit the Champions League after failing to overturn the deficit from the first leg.
Brazilian forward Ronaldo had produced one of the greatest individual performances of all time, while David Beckham helped United win the match in his final European appearance for the club.
United were without Paul Scholes and Gary Neville due to suspension. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer started on the right wing ahead of Beckham, with youngsters John O’Shea and Wes Brown playing at full-back.
Ronaldo’s first goal came from a Guti pass as his powerful strike caught Fabien Barthez out at his near post. That was before Ruud van Nistelrooy equalised before half-time.
The reigning European champions restored their lead after the break when Ronaldo took advantage of Roberto Carlos’ squared pass. An own goal from Ivan Helguera followed, but Ronaldo completed his hat-trick with an effort from distance before the hour mark.
Ronaldo was taken off midway through the second half to a standing ovation from the home and away fans alike. United fans would rarely applaud a player who had just scored a hat-trick against them.
Beckham came off the bench and scored a brilliant free-kick to make it 4-3.
- ⚡️ NEWS IN BRIEF
- Ronaldo scored a hat-trick against Man Utd in 2003
- It led to a rare standing ovation from the Old Trafford faithful
- United won the match 4-3
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It worked for Chelsea, Real Madrid and Barcelona…
What did Ronaldo say about his standing ovation at Old Trafford?
Speaking to UEFA.com, Ronaldo has previously reflected on the standing ovation he received from United fans at Old Trafford.
Ronaldo describes it as a “unique” moment in his career.
“When I left the pitch, people stood up and applauded me off,” said Ronaldo.
“It was a really unique situation and a very special moment for me. I haven’t really experienced a similar situation since then. It was very interesting and special for me.”
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