REAL MADRID superstar Cristiano Ronaldo made a brilliant gesture to Juventus legend Gianluigi Buffon following their Champions League clash yesterday.
Buffon was sent off on his final outing in Europe’s top competition after referee Michael Oliver awarded a controversial injury-time penalty, which Ronaldo dispatched.
It meant the match finished 3-1 to Juventus but, crucially, Madrid won 4-3 on aggregate and were sent through to the semi-finals.
Following the result, Buffon launched a scathing attack on Oliver’s decision.
But, as the footage shows, his post-match interview was interrupted by Ronaldo.
The Portuguese superstar tapped Buffon on the shoulder, gave him a hug and appeared to whisper some comforting words.
Fans were quick to praise the 33-year-old’s actions after the clip went viral online.
“Class is permanent,” one wrote.
Another added: “This is ultimate respect.”
And a third commented: “He always has that respect.”
Ronaldo revealed after the match he hopes Buffon changes his mind about stepping away from the game.
“I have a lot of respect for Buffon, the words he has said about me, and what I’ve said about him,” he said.
“He is a great goalkeeper and I hope this is not his last Champions League appearance, he is one of the best goalkeepers ever.”