Cristiano Ronaldo was Manchester United’s saviour yet again on Tuesday night.The legendary Portuguese forward, who turns 37 in February, rescued a precious Champions League point for the Red Devils away at Atalanta thanks to his dramatic stoppage-time equaliser.Ronaldo netted a stunning volley from the edge of the box as United salvaged a 2-2 draw against their Italian opponents at the Gewiss Stadium.That was Ronaldo’s second goal - and, indeed, his second equaliser - of the evening.Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side found themselves 1-0 down after 12 minutes when a David de Gea mistake allowed Josip Ilicic to give Atalanta the lead.Ronaldo levelled the scores on the stroke of half-time, finishing off an excellent team move which culminated in a beautiful back-heeled assist from Bruno Fernandes.Daniel Zapata put the hosts back in front early in the second half before Ronaldo scored his 139th Champions League goal at the death.
Video: Ronaldo's goal vs Atalanta in slow-motion
Stunning slow-motion footage of Ronaldo’s magnificent equaliser has gone viral on Twitter.
It’s pure poetry in motion and you can watch it here:
Different class.
The technique and composure to finish like that under pressure is outrageous.
It’s safe to say that we will never see a footballer quite like Cristiano Ronaldo again.
Let’s check out some of the best reaction to the video:
Ronaldo’s goal alleviated the pressure on Solskjaer’s shoulders following another unconvincing team display. The Norwegian was reportedly given three games to save his job before last weekend’s surprise 3-0 victory over Tottenham.
Next up for Solskjaer and his players is a daunting Premier League clash at home to neighbours Manchester City on Saturday lunchtime.
And there’s no doubt that United’s in-form No. 7 will be in the starting line-up once again.
Solskjaer compares Ronaldo to Michael Jordan
“You play for Manchester United or the Chicago Bulls because you can come up with these moments,” Solskjaer said, per The Sun, after Tuesday’s draw against Atalanta.
“I’m sure the Chicago Bulls didn’t mind having Michael Jordan. And that’s what Cristiano is like for us.
“If there is anyone you want a chance to fall to in the last minute – and a difficult chance – then it’s Cristiano. That technique on the volley is just incredible.
“We all have roles and responsibilities and for us he’s a leader and scores goals. He’s getting better and better.”
Atalanta 2-2 Man Utd - reaction (Football Terrace)
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