Ronaldo Scores Sensational Hat-Trick in Madrid Maestro’s ReturnRonaldo Scores Sensational Hat-Trick in Madrid Maestro’s Return Cristiano Ronaldo made a triumphant return to the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday, scoring a sensational hat-trick as Real Madrid thrashed local rivals Atletico Madrid 3-0 in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final. The Portuguese talisman, who left Madrid for Juventus in 2018, was greeted with a raucous ovation from the home crowd as he stepped onto the pitch. And he did not disappoint, delivering a clinical performance that left the visitors reeling. Ronaldo opened the scoring after just 16 minutes, firing home a powerful left-footed shot from the edge of the area. He doubled his tally just before half-time, nodding in a header from close range. After the break, Ronaldo completed his hat-trick with a stunning free-kick that curled into the top corner, sending the Madrid faithful into raptures. The goal was his 23rd against Atletico, making him the club’s all-time leading scorer in the derby. Ronaldo’s performance was a masterclass in finishing, and it proved to be too much for an Atletico side that had no answer to his brilliance. The result puts Madrid in a commanding position in the tie, with the second leg to be played at the Wanda Metropolitano on February 27. After the match, Ronaldo was full of praise for his former teammates and the Madrid fans. “It was an emotional night for me to return to the Bernabeu,” he said. “The fans were incredible, and I’m so grateful for their support.” “We played a great game tonight and got a very important result,” Ronaldo added. “We know it’s not over yet, but we’re in a good position now.” Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane was also delighted with Ronaldo’s performance. “He’s a special player,” Zidane said. “He came back to Madrid and showed everyone what he can do. I’m so happy for him.” With Ronaldo in this kind of form, Madrid will be confident of completing the job in the second leg and reaching the Copa del Rey final.
