Football
ESPN staff 10y

Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo named UEFA Best Player in Europe

Cristiano Ronaldo has won the UEFA Best Player in Europe Award for the 2013-14 season after his role in Real Madrid's Champions League glory.

Ronaldo received the accolade after Thursday's Champions League group stage draw was made, as the holders were placed against Liverpool, Basel and Ludogorets.

The Portugal international finished ahead of Bayern Munich duo Arjen Robben and Manuel Neuer in a live vote by a panel of 54 journalists.

Bayern's Franck Ribery was given the award in 2013, while previous winners include Barcelona pair Andres Iniesta and Lionel Messi.

Ronaldo, 29, scored 17 Champions League goals last season, including Real's fourth from the penalty spot in their 4-1 win over Atletico Madrid in the final that went to extra time.

They victory clinched a tenth European Cup trophy for Los Blancos, ending their wait for La Decima.

Reflecting on the group stage draw, Ronaldo believes Real can become the first to successfully defend the Champions League trophy.

He said: "Why not -- everything is possible. I had the opportunity to do it when I was at Manchester United and now for Real Madrid -- the biggest clubs in the world so I am looking forward to getting a second chance."

Information from the Press Association was used in this report.

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