Cristiano Ronaldo’s return has been all over the news since before the international break. Finally, it came true today. He returned to the pitch in style with his goals as expected. In his second stint at Old Trafford, CR7 opened his account with a brace in a 4-1 win over Newcastle United. He was no longer the quick winger he once was, but rather a prolific forward with good positioning and clinical finish. No wonder that he was awarded the man of the match here.

The game began with United attempting to take control and score the first goal. Nonetheless, they were almost frustrated by Newcastle’s layered defensive stance in 5-3-2 formation. Unfortunately, it was the visitor’s goalkeeper, Freddie Woodman, who assisted Ronaldo’s first goal in his comeback by failing to secure the ball on his hand and creating a rebound. Portuguese forward wasted no time in putting the ball into the back of the net. The Magpies equalized through Javier Manquillo, but United was unstoppable after that. Ronaldo bagged another one, followed by Bruno Fernandes’s goal from a long shot and Jesse Lindgard’s before the final whistle. It was a one fine afternoon for the megastar and the Red Devils’ fans.

Ronaldo’s Match Overview:

Rating: 8.51
Minutes played: 90
Pass accuracy %: 86.7
Goal contribution: 2 goals
Shots (on target): 2
Dribbles: 0
Touches: 62
Crosses (accurate crosses): 0
Key Passes: 1