Menzi Magubane
Just five days after Cristiano Ronaldo’s disappointing exit in the UEFA Champions League with Juventus, the Portuguese maestro came back stronger over the weekend. The 36 year old is now the world’s leading goalscorer after his hat-trick on Sunday against Cagliari helped him break Pele’s long standing goalscoring record.
The Brazilian legend scored 767 goals between 1957 to 1977 and on Sunday Ronaldo jumped over him to take his goal tally to 770 in official matches. Pele, 80, couldn’t hold back his administration and congratulated the five-time Ballon d’Or winner.
“Congratulations on breaking my record of goals in official matches. I admire you a lot, I love watching you play and this is no secret to anyone. My only regret is not being able to give you a hug today,” wrote the only player in history to win three World Cups on his instagram.
“Cristiano’s life is a solo flight. Each makes his own journey. And what a beautiful journey you are having.”
On 2 March, Ronaldo equalled Pele’s record and it was just a matter of time before the inevitable happened. On his instagram the Portuguese shared his excitement.
“I’m filled with joy and pride as I acknowledge the goal that puts me on top of the World’s goal scoring list, overcoming Pele’s record, something that I could never have dreamed of while growing up as a child in Madeira,” Ronaldo wrote.
“Thanks to all of those who took part in this amazing journey with me. To my teammates, to my opponents, to the fans of the beautiful game all over the world and, above all, to my family and close friends: trust me when I say that I couldn’t have done it without you.
“Now I can’t wait for the next games and challenges! The next records and trophies! Believe me, this story is still far from being over. The future is tomorrow and there’s still a lot to win for Juventus and Portugal.”
Ronaldo’s goals include 668 for club sides, five with Sporting Lisbon, 118 for Manchester United, 450 for Real Madrid and 95 for Juventus. He has also scored 120 for Portugal.
Picture source: @footballfactly
