Cristiano Ronaldo hat-trick: Juventus star describes Atletico Madrid result as ‘a magical night’

Ronaldo's sensational hat-trick was his eighth in the Champions League, drawing him level with Lionel Messi

Cristiano Ronaldo has declared Juventus’ 3-0 victory over Atletico Madrid as a “magical night”, as the Italian side stormed back from a two-goal first-leg deficit to reach the Champions League quarter-finals.

Ronaldo made the all-important breakthrough midway through the first-half, eventually levelling the aggregate score three minutes after halftime with a second towering header.

He then recorded an eighth hat-trick in the Champions League when he converted a decisive penalty just four minutes from time, to seal a 3-2 aggregate triumph.

And after the match, Ronaldo said the night ranked as one of his finest in the tournament.

“We wanted a special night and it was just that – not only for my goals, but for the entire team,” Ronaldo said.

“This is the right mentality to play in the Champions League, so we must be proud.

“I just do my work and I'm very happy tonight, it was a magical night. Atlético are always difficult to face, but we are also strong and we proved it.”

Defender Leonardo Bonucci meanwhile added: “It is a great night for all the Juve people. Many were ready to celebrate our defeat, I'm sorry for them. Juve always responds on the pitch.

“We played with the right spirit and our fans were the 12th man tonight.”