Ronaldo Shot `Long-Waited Goal` Signaling His Revival

"Ronaldo regained his power."

Inter Milan`s Ronaldo scored a goal in the 2001-2002 Italian league Serie A-match with Brescia at Mario Rigamonti Stadium yesterday.

Inter Milan`s `dream pair` Ronaldo and Christian Vieri rushed into the goal area, and Ronaldo scored the opening goal with a right-footed shot from the edge of the penalty area in the 18th minute after a beautifully crafted one-two passes with Vieri.. Ronaldo`s canon-like shoot strongly hit the Brescia`s goal net.

As soon as Ronald blasted a long-waited goal, 7 other stadiums around Italy presented the news of Ronaldo`s goal in the scoreboards, which was greeted with applause.

World-renowned players such as Filipo Inzaghi (AC Milan) and Batistuta (AS Rome) also shared the joy, saying "it was a big news for the world soccer."

Ronaldo`s last competitive goal came in November 22nd, 1999 when he scored against Lecce. After he injured his right knee in game with Lazio in April last year, Ronaldo succeeded to return to the league after effectively taking a two year sabbatical with two surgeries and rehabilitation treatment. But he has been limited to late substitute appearances in recent weeks, because he failed to show his prime-time performance.

The revival of Ronaldo is a good news for one of the 2002 World Cup hosts, Korea. Because the mother country of Ronaldo, Brazil in group C, have to play three first-round games in Korea, the Korean fans will be able to see a fabulous performance of Ronald, who has been regarded as the best Brazilian soccer hero since Pele.

Ronaldo, who started this game, was replaced in the 21st minute of the second half, after scoring a goal. He expressed his happiness, saying "I am delighted to start from the first minute. It was a great day."

Ronaldo proved that he completely recovered from the injury, showing his daunting attacks against the opponent defenders` harsh tackle as well as scoring a goal. Inter Milan won a 3-1 victory over Brescia on two goals of Vieri following Ronaldo`s goal to stay top of Italy`s Serie A with 8 wins, 4 draws and 1 loss (28 points).

Kwon Soon-Il stt77@donga.com