Cristiano Ronaldo returned to Real Madrid’s side with two goals in the 3-0 victory against APOEL and has set his sights on helping the team win their third successive Champions League trophy.
Ronaldo has been missing from Real Madrid’s side in La Liga due to a five match ban incurred for pushing a referee. However, the player was present in his team’s encounter against APOEL. The Spanish giants had few problems in winning the game by a three goal difference.
Although the Portugal international knows that the team has to concentrate on moving through each phase of the competition, he knows what Real’s objective in the competition has to be. After winning a historic second UCL trophy in a row only a few months ago, Ronaldo wants the team to add a third.
“There’s still a long way to go; let’s go game by game. First we have the group stage then we can see. We of course want to win this tournament. The Champions League is Real Madrid’s competition and we want to win it,” the winger tells UEFA.com reporters.
Cristiano Ronaldo is in the novel position of becoming somewhat of an elder statesman for his younger colleagues. Dani Ceballos, making his debut in European competitions referred to the Portuguese as “the soul of the team” and wished for a swift return back into the squad.
“With Cristiano on the field, we’re always more comfortable and he gives us the confidence that turns in to goals. He’s the soul of the team, he’s fundamental for us and he’s in better shape than ever. He’s had a great game and his ambition makes him the best in the world,” Ceballos said.
Ronaldo is not a player to miss an opportunity to make an impact and this was the case in Real’s opening game, where he netted two goals. The winger talked about Real’s dominance in the UCL and the need to make a good debut in the competition. Many pundits would seem to agree that Real will once again be the favorites this season to win the trophy.
“I’m delighted to be back playing. This is a distinct competition and to start playing again and scoring goals is very important for me. I helped the side and feel good about that,” the 32-year-old said.
“It was a game we needed to win; we played at home and wanted to start the Champions League well. I think the side were good; we know we were taking on a defensive outfit. We could’ve scored more but in the end it was a good result and we’ve started off well and we’re happy with that.”
