The 2020/21 La Liga season was a roller coaster ride for Cristiano Ronaldo and Real Madrid. After years of dominating the Spanish league, the Portuguese superstar had joined Juventus, leaving a void at the Santiago Bernabéu. However, his return to Spain with Real Madrid in the 2021/22 season brought back familiar sights and sounds for Madridistas. Yet, no one could have anticipated the shocking moment that occurred in a match against Granada.
On January 2nd, 2022, Real Madrid hosted Granada at the Santiago Bernabéu. The atmosphere was electric, with fans eager to see Ronaldo back in action. The match was a tight affair, with neither side able to break the deadlock for the majority of the game.
The Shocking Turn of Events
The first half ended goalless, but the second half saw a dramatic turn of events. In the 76th minute, Granada was awarded a free kick just outside the Real Madrid penalty area. The delivery was perfect, finding its way into the box, where Ronaldo, attempting to clear the danger, inadvertently headed the ball past his own goalkeeper, Thibaut Courtois.
The stadium was stunned into silence. Ronaldo, visibly distraught, could only look on in disbelief as Granada celebrated what seemed like an improbable goal.
A Rare Occurrence in Ronaldo’s Career
Ronaldo, known for his clinical finishing and goal-scoring prowess, has scored over 800 goals in his career. However, own goals are a rarity for the legendary striker. This incident against Granada was only his second own goal in a professional career spanning over two decades.
This moment highlighted the unpredictable nature of the game and the human factor that can always play a role. It also served as a reminder that even the greatest players can make mistakes.
Reactions and Analysis
“It’s a game of mistakes, and sometimes, those mistakes can be costly. Ronaldo, despite his brilliance, is not immune to them.” – Sergio Ramos, former Real Madrid captain
The own goal against Granada sparked a wave of reactions and analyses. While some fans and pundits found humor in the situation, others expressed sympathy for Ronaldo. Regardless of the perspective, the incident became a defining moment of the match and a talking point for fans and media alike.
What Happened Next?
Despite the own goal, Real Madrid eventually managed to salvage a draw against Granada, with Karim Benzema equalizing in the 89th minute. However, the impact of Ronaldo’s own goal remained a significant talking point for fans and analysts.
FAQs
Q: Was it the first time Ronaldo had scored an own goal?
A: No, it was his second own goal in his professional career.
Q: How did Ronaldo react to the own goal?
A: Ronaldo looked visibly distraught and could only look on in disbelief.
Q: Did Real Madrid win the match after Ronaldo’s own goal?
A: No, Real Madrid drew 1-1 against Granada.
Q: How many goals has Ronaldo scored in his career?
A: Ronaldo has scored over 800 goals in his career.
Q: How does Ronaldo’s own goal against Granada rank among his career highlights?
A: While a shocking moment, it is certainly not among Ronaldo’s career highlights.
Q: How did Real Madrid perform in La Liga in the 2021/22 season?
A: Real Madrid finished second in La Liga in the 2021/22 season.
