My Greatest 11 - The Blog — Ronaldo
Europe XI vs. Rest of the World XI (1997): Ronaldo & Batistuta’s Iconic Partnership Shines
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The exhibition match between Europe XI and Rest of the World XI, played on December 4, 1997, at the Stade Vélodrome in Marseille, showcased the best players from around the globe in celebration of football's universal appeal. With the draw for the 1998 FIFA World Cup following immediately after, the match was a prelude to the tournament and gave fans a glimpse of the stars who would light up the competition.
The match ended in an emphatic 5–2 victory for the Rest of the World XI, highlighted by the iconic partnership between Gabriel Batistuta and Ronaldo, who both scored twice. Below are the team lineups and notable performances from this unforgettable night.
The Greatest XI: Born in 1985
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When it comes to assembling an all-time XI, it’s always an exciting challenge to explore players from the same birth year. Here, we focus on a lineup of footballers born in 1985, a year that produced a range of exceptional talent across the globe. This team is built on a blend of experience, versatility, and star power, highlighted by iconic figures who left a significant mark on world football.
A Dream Team of Football Legends Born in September
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Ronaldo Nazário (ST)
Leading the line is none other than Ronaldo Nazário, "O Fenomeno." Born on September 22, 1976, Ronaldo is widely regarded as one of the greatest strikers in football history. His blend of speed, skill, and finishing ability was unmatched. Despite multiple injuries, Ronaldo's career is filled with memorable goals and match-winning performances, including leading Brazil to World Cup glory in 2002. In our dream team, Ronaldo is the ultimate finisher, capable of turning any chance into a goal.
UEFA Team of the Year 2008: A Golden Generation of Football Excellence
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Widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers of all time, Iker Casillas was in his prime in 2008. His shot-stopping ability, leadership, and consistency were instrumental in Spain's triumph at UEFA Euro 2008, where he captained La Roja to their first major international title in 44 years. Casillas' performances for Real Madrid were equally impressive, solidifying his reputation as "San Iker."
A Glimpse into History: Cristiano Ronaldo’s Manchester United Debut in 2003
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Cristiano Ronaldo's journey to becoming one of the greatest footballers of all time began in earnest on a sunny afternoon at Old Trafford on August 16, 2003. That day, Ronaldo made his much-anticipated debut for Manchester United, a moment that would later be etched in the annals of football history.