Cristiano Ronaldo Names the Team He’d 'Bet On' to Win the Champions League
- Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed the team he believes is most likely to win this season’s competition
- Speaking at the Globe Soccer Awards, Ronaldo expressed his confidence in Real Madrid to retain their title
- Real Madrid are the reigning champions and secured their record-extending 15th Champions League title last season
Al-Nassr captain Cristiano Ronaldo has named the team he believes has the best chance of winning the UEFA Champions League.
The 39-year-old has not competed in the Champions League since leaving Juventus for Manchester United and later transferring to Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr in January 2023.
Source: Getty Images
Despite his absence, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner remains a legend of the competition, holding records for the most appearances (183), goals (140), and assists (42) in Champions League history.
The Portuguese star has won the Champions League five times—once with Manchester United and four times with Real Madrid.
Speaking at the Globe Soccer Awards on Friday, December 27, Ronaldo expressed confidence in Los Blancos' ability to retain the Champions League title this season.
“If you want to bet on a team in the Champions League, bet on Real Madrid,” Ronaldo said via Madrid Zone.
How Real Madrid fared in the UCL last season
Arsenal have defeated defending champion Real Madrid 2-1 to reach the Champions League semifinals for the first time since 2009 in a match in which VAR played a key role in two penalty decisions.
Arsenal advanced 5-1 on aggregate on Wednesday after a 3-0 first-leg win at home in London last week, keeping alive its chances of winning Europe’s top club competition for the first time. They will face Paris Saint-Germain in the semifinals.
The defending champion and record 15-time European winner fell short of the last four for the first time since 2020. They were seeking their third Champions League title in four seasons.
How Ronaldo got Ballon d'Or votes from Cape Verde
The country has consistently celebrated him, with the national team coach, captain, and top journalists regularly placing him at the top of their Ballon d’Or ballots, even in years he didn’t win.
This continued recognition reflects the pride Cabo Verdeans feel for their world-renowned descendant.
Even his son, Cristiano Jr., had the opportunity to represent Cabo Verde at international level but chose to follow in his father’s footsteps by committing to Portugal.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s story is one of relentless dedication, but it’s also a celebration of heritage.
His African roots, blended with years of world-class training and discipline, may well be the secret ingredient to one of football’s greatest-ever careers.
Ronaldo makes bold Lionel Messi confession
Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported that Ronaldo once acknowledged an area where his long-time rival Lionel Messi outshines him on the pitch.
Despite their fierce competition, CR7 admitted in a 2016 interview that he envies Messi's exceptional left foot, a trait he believes gives the Argentine an edge.
Source: YEN.com.gh
