Looking physically better than we’ve seen him during the last 13 months of recovery following his 3rd full ACL Reconstruction, Ronaldo came in as a substitute for the last 27 minutes of Corinthians 2 – 0 win over Itumbiara in the Brazilian Cup and afterwards took a microphone to the right side of his face when the press swarmed onto the field, causing a black eye.

Via DailyMail 

‘I have suffered much in the last year,’ said Ronaldo. ‘But this is only the beginning.

‘The feeling of being on the pitch again was exciting. I can’t wait to return the affection of the Corinthians fans and to all Brazilians who are rooting for me.’

‘From now are games from Wednesday to Sunday,’ he said. ‘We must plan so that I can be in most games.’

Corinthians coach Mano Menezes said: ‘He had a good debut, moved well and tried a few dribbles.’

Corinthians were already 2-0 ahead when Ronaldo came on, Chicao and Andre Santos having scored either side of half-time.

Wearing his favourite No 9 shirt, Ronaldo played his first game for a Brazilian club since leaving Cruzeiro in 1994.