Ronaldo hails Real title success

Posted Thursday, May 03, 2012 by ESPN

Cristiano Ronaldo spoke of his delight after helping Real Madrid clinch the La Liga title on Wednesday evening with a 3-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao.

Ronaldo missed an early penalty at San Mames but he was later on the mark to add to goals from Gonzalo Higuain and Mesut Ozil as Madrid ended Barcelona's three-year reign as Spanish champions.

Ronaldo, who joined Madrid from Manchester United for a world-record £80million in 2009, was quoted as saying by AS newspaper: "It's great. It's my first league here in Spain and I'm very happy, it's mission accomplished and to win the league is great."

Long-serving Madrid captain Iker Casillas, who has now won five league titles with the club, added: "The season has been very long and tough. We've taken a little step forward with respect to last season. The big pity has been the Champions League. Hopefully we can do it next season."

The Spain goalkeeper also hailed the role of Mourinho, saying: "The coach is also a very important part in this.

"We dedicate this to all Madrid fans who wanted a league title. We hope to take another little step forward next year. It was difficult to beat a team like Barcelona we've done it.

"We still need to win the Champions League, but now we are going to enjoy this."

Casillas' team-mate for club and country Sergio Ramos added in AS: "Congratulations to all Madrid fans. We are looking forward to getting to Cibeles to celebrate with everyone.

"Madrid are deserving winners. It's my third league and I'm very happy."