Nine years at Real Madrid: 9 most iconic CR7 moments

#3. Snatching the La Liga title away from Barcelona at the Camp Nou

Cristiano scored in the 1-2 victory at Camp Nou in 2012

Barcelona and Real Madrid went into the El Clasico of 2012 at the Camp Nou with the La Liga on the line. The two teams were 4 points adrift with 5 games remaining. A Barcelona win would have narrowed the margin to just one point.

The Camp Nou Clasico was locked into a close tussle that would eventually decide the winners of the 2011-2012 season. The game wasn't just like any other El-Clasico, not about the same usual fiercely contested rivalry or about bragging rights, but about the title. The Los Blancos had not graced the winner's medal since 2008 and Portuguese boss Jose Mourinho was having one of his best seasons with the club. Madrid had to capitalize -it was now or never.

Sami Khedira got Madrid off to a dream start by capitalizing on a horrendous mistake by Carles Puyol. However, Alexis Sanchez leveled the tie after coming in as a substitute. The Camp Nou was buzzing and sensed a comeback. However, the Madrid number 7 fetched a fine curling cross from Ozil and smashed it past an awestruck Victor Valdes to seal the title for Perez and co. He unveiled his trademark trademark 'keep-calm' celebration and silenced the 70,000 odd fans.

It was a hallmark goal - it signified Ronaldo's re-entry into the Ballon d'Or race and the return of Real Madrid in Spain's top flight. Most importantly, it was a victory that the Bernabeu giants went on to use as a springboard for future success.