Five of the best: A tribute to the ‘real’ Ronaldo

JOE takes a look back at the career of Brazilian striker Ronaldo, who announced his retirement from football today with immediate effect.

By Frank McCann

With Ronaldo announcing his retirement from professional football, one of the game’s most glittering careers comes to an end.

The former Barcelona, Real Madrid and Inter Milan striker scored an amazing 352 goals from 515 games and has scored more World Cup goals (15) than any other player.

The Brazilian legend had several highs and lows during his 18-year career, but will most definitely be remembered as one of the greatest players of his generation.

JOE looks back at some of the 'real' Ronaldo’s finest moments.

1. Amazing individual goal for Barcelona v Compostela

In October 1996, Ronaldo’s amazing solo run against Compostela got the world talking about his amazing ability. He would go on to score a number of magnificent goals for the Catalan side, but none could compare to this moment of genius:

2. All 15 of Ronaldo's goals in the World Cup

Ronaldo made the Brazil squad for four World Cups, winning the trophy on two occasions. He holds the record for the most World Cup goals, finding the net a record 15 times at football’s most prestigious competition.

3. Ronaldo skill compilation

In the 90’s, the Brazilian striker made the “stepover” the most famous football skill in the World. His ability to make his opponents look foolish was something to behold. (Warning: you might want to turn off the sound for this clip)

4. Ronaldo hat-trick for Real Madrid against Manchester United in the 2003 Champions League quarter-final

On April 23rd 2003, “El Fenomeno” produced one of his greatest ever performances when he scored an incredible hat-trick against Manchester United while playing for Real Madrid in a Champions League Quarter-final tie at Old Trafford. Ronaldo was so good that he was applauded off the pitch by the Old Trafford faithful after being called ashore.

5. Ronaldo's greatest goals

Over his 18 years as a professional footballer, Ronaldo produced some of the most amazing finishing the game has ever seen. The Brazilian scored at such a consistent rate despite all the setbacks he had in his career. Here are some of his greatest strikes.