Ronaldinho and Ronaldo share their toughest opponent. Legendary Italian defender Paolo Maldini was once cited by Brazilian giants Ronaldo and Ronaldinho as the hardest opponent they had ever played. At the same time as the Italian, both players were in Serie A.
In his playing career, Ronaldo represented both Milan juggernauts, AC Milan and Inter Milan. After leaving Barcelona, Ronaldinho represented the Rossoneri. While playing for Barca, he faced Maldini.
At AC Milan, Ronaldinho and Maldini were teammates. When asked about his hardest opponent, Ronaldinho answered FourFourTwo (via SportBIBLE): “Paolo Maldini must be the culprit. Too many abilities. When you get to play with him, it’s impossible not to be in awe of how he made it all appear effortless.
While expressing his love for Maldini, Ronaldo also commended great Italian defenders like Fabio Cannavaro and Alessandro Nesta. In an interview with II Messaggero, the illustrious number nine said, “Toughest defender I’ve faced in my career? Paolo Maldini would be the toughest player ever. Among other powerful Italian defenders, I’d mention Cannavaro, Nesta, and Vierchowod.
Throughout his whole playing career, Maldini only ever represented AC Milan. In an illustrious career, he made 901 appearances for the Rossoneri. Prior to declaring his retirement in 2009, Maldini also played 126 times for the Italian men’s national team.
The Italian is regarded by many as one of the best defenders to ever play the position. FIFA World Cup 2002, which was held in Japan and South Korea, was won by Brazil. On their way to winning the championship, they overcame groups from Belgium, England, Turkey, and Germany.
In the competition’s championship game, Ronaldo stole the spotlight. The great striker assisted his nation in winning the World Cup for the sixth time in their history by scoring twice past German custodian Oliver Kahn.
While everything was going on, Ronaldinho showcased his talent during the quarterfinal matchup with England. In order to help Rivaldo get the equalizer, he delivered an unbelievable assist, and then he scored with a fantastic free kick that beat David Seaman.
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