Cristiano Ronaldo nets three, eclipses Pele

Milan, March 15

A quick hat-trick for Cristiano Ronaldo still wasn’t enough for third-placed Juventus to close in on Inter Milan, who managed to extend their lead at the top of Serie A. Ronaldo’s three goals took his career total to 770, three more than Pele, with whom he was equal on goals since March 2.

Juventus beat Cagliari 3-1 but remained 10 points behind Inter and one behind second-placed AC Milan. — Agencies

Pele’s mark

Cristiano Ronaldo’s (in pic) tally after the hat-trick is 770 career goals, surpassing Brazilian great Pele’s official total. Pele, 80, wrote on social media: “Congratulations on breaking my record of goals in official matches. I admire you a lot, I love watching you play and this is no secret to anyone. My only regret is not being able to give you a hug today.”

“There is still much more to achieve and I believe we can do it together. Goals are an essential part of who I am. I can’t stop chasing for more, looking forward to achieve another record!” Ronaldo posted on his Instagram page.

Pele, the only player in history to win three World Cups, has claimed to have scored 1,283 goals in total, including in unofficial matches.