Cristiano Ronaldo was once against the catalyst for success at Manchester United as the 36-year-old forward scored a 95th-minute winner against Villarreal in the Champions League.
Ronaldo’s involvement meant he set a new record in the tournament, surpassing Iker Casillas’ previous record of 177 appearances in Europe’s most prestigious competition.
It would only get better for the striker as the night went on, although he endured some frustrating moments in the 90-minute affair. Villarreal were resilient in defence and seldom offered him any freedom.
It was, however, Ronaldo who would have the last laugh as he popped up in the final minute of added time to steer in the winner for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side.
Read more: (Video) Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admits Man Utd were lucky against Villarreal
“Unbelievable,” he told Manchester United media. “Another chapter, another beautiful chapter so I’m so happy to score the winning goal and the way I did, the most appearances in history and to score a goal, a great night.
“I have to mention the attitude of the team, which is the most important here. That we give a good answer after we concede a goal, especially the fans, they are pushing us a lot. So I have to say the team and the fans did an unbelievable job.”
The victory over Unai Emery’s side puts United in good stead for the rest of the group stages as a double-header against group leaders Atalanta await the Reds.
United have three points from two games and will welcome Atalanta to Old Trafford following the international break. Another 12:30 kick-off this weekend against Everton is next on the agenda for Solskjaer.
