How old is Cristiano Ronaldo and what are his five GOAT goals?

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Cristiano Ronaldo, who celebrated his 39th birthday in February, continues to defy age and expectations by delivering stellar performances in the Saudi Pro League with Al Nassr and leading the line for Portugal. The football icon, with a career spanning over 20 years, showcases his goal-scoring prowess, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.

As the anticipation builds for another European Championship, fans and pundits alike wonder when the Portuguese GOAT (Greatest of All Time) will eventually hang up his boots. Currently dominating the Saudi Pro League with Al Nassr and maintaining a crucial role in the Portuguese national team, Ronaldo’s longevity and impact remain unparalleled.

The Sporting News takes a nostalgic look at some of the greatest goals from Ronaldo’s illustrious career, highlighting his versatility and scoring prowess. Here are five memorable moments:

  1. Ronaldo vs Sampdoria — Serie A 2019/20: Ronaldo’s time with Juventus may have been played mostly behind closed doors due to the pandemic, but this header stands out. His determination and athleticism in the air, coupled with a magnificent delivery from Alex Sandro, showcase Ronaldo’s exceptional skills.
  2. Ronaldo vs Arsenal — Champions League semifinals 2008/09: In a Champions League semifinal against Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal, Ronaldo exhibits his trademark free-kick prowess. The pace and precision of the strike leave the Arsenal goalkeeper with no chance, capturing the essence of peak Cristiano.
  3. Ronaldo vs Porto — Champions League quarterfinals 2008/09: A goal that earned Ronaldo the inaugural Puskas Award, this long-range strike against Porto showcased his ability to control the ball and unleash a powerful shot from 40 yards. The goal not only propelled United to the Champions League semi-finals but also solidified Ronaldo’s status as a world-class talent.
  4. Ronaldo vs Spain — World Cup 2018: On the grand stage of the World Cup in Russia, Ronaldo delivers a memorable hat-trick, including a stunning free-kick against Spain. This moment stands out as a testament to his persistence and excellence on the international stage.
  5. Ronaldo vs Juventus — Champions League quarterfinals 2017/18: A goal that has been replayed worldwide, Ronaldo’s bicycle kick against Juventus in the Champions League quarterfinals is a masterpiece. The sheer athleticism and technical brilliance displayed in this goal make it an iconic moment in football history.

Ronaldo’s illustrious career is not only defined by spectacular goals but also by an impressive trophy haul. From his time at Manchester United to Real Madrid and now in Saudi Arabia with Al Nassr, Ronaldo has secured numerous domestic and international titles. His leadership recently led Al Nassr to victory in the Arab Club Champions Cup at the start of the 2023/24 season, reinforcing his impact on title-winning efforts across different clubs. Despite his extensive list of accomplishments, the elusive FIFA World Cup title remains one of the few accolades yet to be claimed by the football legend, setting the stage for future chapters in his storied career.

Team Competition Times won Years won
Sporting CP Portuguese Super Cup 1 2002
Manchester United Premier League 3 2006/07, 2007/08, 2008/09
Manchester United FA Cup 1 2003/04
Manchester United EFL Cup 2 2005/06, 2008/09
Manchester United Champions League 1 2007/08
Manchester United FIFA Club World Cup 1 2008
Manchester United Community Shield 1 2007
Real Madrid La Liga 2 2011/12, 2016/17
Real Madrid Copa del Rey 2 2010/11, 2013/14
Real Madrid Spanish Super Cup 2 2012, 2017
Real Madrid Champions League 4 2013/14, 2015/16, 2016/17, 2017/18
Real Madrid UEFA Super Cup 2 2014, 2017
Real Madrid FIFA Club World Cup 3 2014 ,2016, 2017
Juventus Serie A 2 2018/19, 2019/20
Juventus Coppa Italia 1 2020/21
Juventus Italian Super Cup 2 2018, 2020
Portugal U20 Toulon Tournament 1 2003
Portugal European Championship 1 2016
Portugal Nations League 1 2018/19
Al Nassr Arab Club Champions Cup 1 2023