CRISTIANO RONALDO went from hero to villain as he was sent off in Real Madrid’s 2-0 win over Malaga.

The former Manchester United star received a straight red for elbowing defender Patrick Mtiliga in the face after 70 minutes – a blow which broke the player’s nose.

Ronaldo tried to spin away from Mtiliga and, as they tussled, the Real ace swung his arm and caught the Dane.

Malaga president Fernando Sanz said: “What he should have done is left the field apologising to his opponent rather than throwing his arms in the air and protesting.”

Real chief Jorge Valdano said: “The referee has to understand which players want to entertain and those who want to break up the spectacle.
“Ronaldo’s intentions are always noble.”

The winger had scored the first-half goals to keep Real in sight of leaders BARCELONA.

They remain five points adrift of their rivals after Barca’s 3-0 win at REAL VALLADOLID.

Source:the sun.co.uk