Dazed winger 'can't remember' Roma goal

Ken Gaunt
Thursday 03 April 2008 00:00 BST
Comments
(GETTY IMAGES)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Cristiano Ronaldo has admitted he remembers little about the goal that turned a crucial Champions League tie Manchester United's way.

The Portugal winger ran from deep to get on the end of a chip from Paul Scholes and score with a brave header to help beat Roma on Tuesday night. However, he can recall little of his latest effort as he was left dazed and needing brief treatment.

Ronaldo said: "To be honest, I don't remember much about the goal. I went down and I felt pain. I didn't enjoy it. But I will have time to watch it on television – others say it's a good goal."

United look poised to face Barcelona – 1-0 winners against Schalke in Germany – in the semi-finals and Ronaldo is calling for a repeat performance against Roma at Old Trafford.

He said: "To win 2-0 away is a great result for us. But it is wrong to think that it's all done. However, we have the return leg at home and we have a chance. If we carry on like this and play well at home, we will get there.

"I think the second goal killed the game off. We had several chances after to score more goals but a 2-0 win is a good result. It's always important not to concede goals and to keep a clean sheet as it is good for confidence."

The only downside for United was a knee injury sustained by defender Nemanja Vidic. Vidic came off in the 33rd minute and was replaced by John O'Shea, who slotted in well at the back alongside Rio Ferdinand. O'Shea has made only nine Premier League starts this season but his composed performance was applauded by his fellow defender Patrice Evra.

"It was important to keep a clean sheet and we did our job," said the Frenchman. "We have a big squad and John showed how strong it is when he came on and filled in for Nemanja. We have confidence in whoever plays."

O'Shea savoured the experience at the Stadio Olimpico. "We can be very proud of what we achieved in Rome," he said. "It's not easy to play away from home and get a good result but we have done this.

"I think it's amazing how the team has played and the confidence we have shown throughout the game. We have taken a step in the right direction and now we must make sure to clinch qualification at home next week.

Sir Alex Ferguson has urged caution ahead of the second leg. He said: "At this moment, it is a fantastic result for us. But probably on the day of the game I will start to worry about it. The first thing we have to do is prepare properly for the match. We cannot take anything for granted with a place in the semi-finals at stake."

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in