Remember When Old Trafford Applauded Ronaldo De Lima
Many football greats have visited Old Trafford, but only a few would have received a standing ovation from the home fans. Back in 2003, Brazil legend Ronaldo had a magical night for Real Madrid.
The striker, who turned 39 on Tuesday, scored a hat-trick in what is considered as one of the best Champions League matches of all time.
Los Blancos arrived with a two-goal cushion from the first leg of the 2003 Champions League quarter-final after winning 3-1 in Madrid. However, they needed Ronaldo's magic to eliminate Sir Alex Ferguson's resilient side.
The Brazilian gave the visitors the lead three times, with an equaliser on each occasion coming via Ruud Van Nistelrooy, an Ivan Helguera own goal and David Beckham, before the latter scored the winner for the Red Devils to seal the 4-3 victory.
Ronaldo was substituted after 67 minutes, when Real were leading 3-2, and received a standing ovation following his hat-trick.
"When I left the pitch, people stood up and applauded me off," he told UEFA.
"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."
Los Blancos were knocked out of the competition in the semi-finals by Juventus, and Ronaldo has gone into the history books as one of the greatest players to not have won the Champions League.
What is your favourite memory of Ronaldo de Lima? Have your say in the comments section below.
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