Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo scored the winning goal as Serie A champions Juventus beat AC Milan 1-0 in the Italian Super Cup in Jeddah on Wednesday evening.
Following a goalless first half, Ronaldo made the difference on the hour mark, nodding in Miralem Pjanic’s through-ball after a perfectly-timed run to score what proved the winner and secure his first trophy in the Bianconeri colours.
“We played well, created a lot of chances and obviously I am happy to have scored the winning goal,” said Ronaldo, who had earlier gone close with a scissors kick in the first half.
“I am happy, it was my intention to start 2019 with a trophy, I have my first title with Juve and I am very happy! It is only the start, we take it one step at a time. We’ve got this cup, now we must keep working hard to achieve the next trophy.
“Serie A is always Juve’s principle objective, we are top of the table, but it’s a very long tournament and it’s going to be tough, so we need to keep working.
“I dedicate the goal to the team, my family, friends and everyone around the world who loves Juve and loves Cristiano.”
Meanwhile, Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri assessed his Portuguese matchwinner in typically simple terms. ““We signed Cristiano Ronaldo because he is decisive and scores big goals,” he said.
There will be little time to rest for the Turin side, with Ronaldo’s men due back in action against Chievo on Monday night.
By Sean Gillen
