Ronaldo makes history, Juventus on brink
TURIN: Cristiano Ronaldo put Juventus on the brink of a ninth consecutive Italian league title on Monday after he scored twice in a 2-1 win over Lazio to become the first player to hit 50 goals in Serie A, La Liga and the Premier League.
Juventus ended a three-match winless run thanks to Ronaldo’s secondhalf brace that moves them eight points clear of second-placed Inter Milan with four games remaining.
Maurizio Sarri’s side could win the title tomorrow against lowly Udinese, or on Sunday at home against Sampdoria, depending on their rivals’ results this week.
“We are missing four points, only after we have achieved them will we then be able to think about the goal achieved,” said Sarri.
“All the games are difficult now, and in the space of six days, we play three games. So, we must stay focused and think about securing the missing points.”
Sarri added: “Cristiano is an impressive player because he has the extraordinary ability to complete a quick recovery between games.
“Not only physically, but, above all, mentally: he is a champion with his feet, but also with his head.”
The 35-year-old Ronaldo is now looking to become the first player to finish top scorer in three of the top five European leagues after doing so in England and Spain.
“Records are always important, but the team victory is more important,” said Ronaldo.
“I’m helping the team to win. It’s important to win the title. There are four games left and we know that Serie A is a difficult championship.”
Just one point had separated Juventus from Lazio when Serie A returned last month following the three-month coronavirus lockdown.
But Simone Inzaghi’s side are now 11 points off the lead. They have been hit by injuries and poor form since the return, with five losses in the last give matches.