Ronaldo runs riot with five goals for Real Madrid
Portugal star hits the quickest hat-trick of his career, in just eight minutes, as Spanish giants record their biggest victory in almost half a century in 9-1 rout of Granada
Cristiano Ronaldo struck the quickest hat-trick of his soccer career on his way to netting a stunning five goals in Real Madrid’s 9-1 drubbing of second-from-bottom Granada on Sunday, taking Real to within a point of La Liga leaders Barcelona.
Portugal forward Ronaldo struck three times in eight minutes after Gareth Bale had fired Real ahead in the 25th minute on a festive, sun-drenched afternoon at the Bernabeu.
Ronaldo has scored three or more goals 24 times in La Liga, equalling the record set this season by his great rival, Barcelona forward Lionel Messi.
What more can I say about [Ronaldo]? It is the first time he has scored five goals with Real Madrid, which is great for him and for us looking forward to the next game
World Player of the Year Ronaldo has registered 31 hat-tricks overall in his career but Sunday's effort was only the second time he has scored all three goals in the first half.
The one-sided affair was Real Madrid’s biggest victory in almost half a century.
“Cristiano has improved as the team has,” said Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti.
“What more can I say about him? It is the first time he has scored five goals with Real Madrid, which is great for him and for us looking forward to the next game. It is good for him and good for the team.