Cristiano Ronaldo headed home the winner in last night's Serie A tie between Juventus and Sampdoria, but it was his leap for the header that was perhaps most spectacular of all.
The goal came just before half-time and ultimately proved decisive as the Old Lady pushed themselves into a three-point lead at the top of the Serie A table.
Pablo Dybala had initially given the Italian giants the lead with a stunning volley in the 19th minute, before Gianluca Caprari grabbed one back with ten minutes to go in the half. The Portuguese star, however, would have the final say on the night with the game finishing 2-1.
💥 Cristiano Ronaldo puts Juve back in front with a TOWERING header before half time!
⬆ Look at how high he climbed for that one!
👍 And another brilliant cross from Alex Sandro for the assist! pic.twitter.com/aQl118qDZQ— Premier Sports (@PremierSportsTV) December 18, 2019
Even Sampdoria manager Claudio Ranieri was gobsmacked by the 34-year-old's leap. He said:
Ronaldo did something that you see in the NBA. He was up in the air for an hour and a half.
Likewise, Maurizio Sarri said: "Ronaldo remained in the air for an infinite time."
The goal was the player's 10th in the league this season, though he has only scored twice in the Champions League. Juventus are now bound for Saudi Arabia where they will play Lazio at the King Saud University Stadium on Sunday in the Italian Super Cup.
