The world of football was left in awe yesterday evening after Cristiano Ronaldo’s brilliant World Cup hat-trick.
The former Manchester United star was the Man of the Match as Portugal saw out a thrilling 3-3 draw with Spain, with Ronaldo grabbing all of his country’s goals.
The Real Madrid star gave Portugal the lead from the penalty spot only four minutes in after being brought down in the box by defender Nacho Fernandez.
Portugal’s lead lasted only 20 minutes however, with former Chelsea striker scoring a fine solo goal to level the scoring.
Ronaldo restored the lead for his country on the stroke off half-time – his effort bumbling through the hands of David de Gea – before Costa again drew level 10 minutes after half-time.
Spain then took the lead for the first time in the game three minutes later, defender Nacho Fernandez scoring a rare goal with a superb volley from the edge of the box.
However, Ronaldo was yet to have the final say – the 33-year-old’s fine free-kick (his first ever at a World Cup) capping off a thrilling tie in Sochi.
Following his heroics yesterday, a host of stars have jumped to call Ronaldo the ‘greatest of all time’.
Former United star Phillip Neville said: “I know there has been many a great player, but for me he’s the greatest of all time. He produces moments, even at the age of 33, that proves that he is the best.”
AC Milan and Italy legend Franco Baresi described the Portuguese star’s performance as simply “amazing”.
And the tributes to the footballing icon have come pouring in from social media following his brilliant hat-trick …
Imagine thinking Ronaldo isn’t the GOAT. pic.twitter.com/lnTUE2lNpS
— Jordan (@JordySloan) June 15, 2018
RONALDO.
Everyone else go home.
GOAT.
— Ste Howson (@MrStephenHowson) June 15, 2018
It's 2018 and Ronaldo is still taking free kicks. No shame. That's my GOAT
— ManUtdMindset (@ManUtdMindset) June 15, 2018
Isco Alarcon: "Cristiano Ronaldo is the GOAT and there is nothing you can do about it." pic.twitter.com/NzzCs0hmbb
— – (@GolazoRonaldo) June 15, 2018
https://twitter.com/Uchekush_/status/1007718059644260352
https://twitter.com/r0bbo_/status/1007699011371925505
The 51st World Cup hat-trick and the 51st of Cristiano Ronaldo’s career. #POR
What a goat.#WorldCup pic.twitter.com/u2tsC7Svb9— Someone's Son (@Mahlatse_mogale) June 15, 2018
https://twitter.com/newscantell/status/1007738937459335170