It’s rare to see Cristiano Ronaldo miss an effort from six yards out, but the Manchester United star did just that against Illan Meslier and Leeds United on Sunday.
The Portuguese football legend was picked out expertly by Paul Pogba down the left wing, yet even with Ronaldo in the perfect place to score, the veteran striker saw his shot saved by Meslier in what was a highlight moment for the Leeds star.
Indeed, the Frenchman was unable to keep that level of quality up for the rest of the game as United claimed a convincing 4-2 win at Elland Road despite Leeds threatening to come from behind at 2-0, with Rodrigo and Raphinha quickly levelling the came after the restart.
Whilst Meslier failed to keep United as a whole at bay, his moment of brilliance against Ronaldo should be something that leaves a mark on Leeds fans, with the youngster continuing to show his quality for the club despite their poor season.
The 21-year-old took the number spot last season after Leeds’ return to the Premier League, and since then, Meslier has gone from strength to strength in the English top-flight, with the keeper now one of the outstanding young shot-stoppers in Europe.
Neville also left stunned by Meslier’s save on Ronaldo
Although Meslier was unable to keep a much-needed clean sheet against Leeds’ biggest rivals United, his incredible first-half save against Ronaldo should be something that was hailed by supporters. And Gary Neville was also left amazed.
Speaking on co-commentary for Sky Sports as per the Daily Star, the United legend was left scratching his head over how Ronaldo missed the chance, with Neville saying: “How has he [Ronaldo] not scored? It was brilliant from Pogba but Ronaldo couldn’t quite get enough on it. It was a big chance.”
Indeed, Meslier’s save on Ronaldo was a big moment for the youngster. And although Leeds were unable to get something from United, that moment from their keeper should be something supporters remember for quite some time.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
