Cristiano Ronaldo showed why he was a big game player on Wednesday night as he scored the crucial goal in the Supercoppa finals against AC Milan at Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This is not the first time he is scoring in a finals as the Portuguese international netted against Chelsea in the UEFA Champions league final of 2008 during his day at Manchester United. He also netted in domestic and continental cup finals when he was in the Spanish capital.

Allegri understanding the quality of the former Real Madrid forward has come to express his delight at the player’s performance though admitted that his side could have been clinical in-front of goal.

“We signed Cristiano Ronaldo because he is decisive and scores big goals,” he told Rai Sport.

“He scored a great goal and moved very well, but the whole team put in a good performance.

“There were a few too many counter-attacks – we should’ve had more moves like the [Paulo] Dybala disallowed goal.

“Instead, we kept trying to move it around too quickly and allowed Milan some counters, forcing us to sprint back.”

Douglas Costa was withdrawn from the game after sustaining an injury, but Allegri was quick to disclose that the injury was not serious.

“It was just cramp, he played a good game,” Allegri added. “These players know what it means to sacrifice.

“I admire above all the spirit and professionalism of this team, as those who came off the bench even if only for a few minutes had the right attitude and determination to make a difference.

“That’s what we need going forward this season.”