Ronaldo says Madrid will advance despite loss

Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo from Portugal reacts during his Santiago Bernabeu trophy soccer match against Rosenborg in the Santiago Bernabeu stadium in Madrid, Monday Aug. 24, 2009. (AP Photo/Daniel Ochoa de Olza)

Real Madrid winger Cristiano Ronaldo says it’s not unexpected to “suffer in this competition” following a 1-0 loss at Lyon in the Champions League.

The record nine-time European Cup champions were beaten by Jean II Makoun’s goal at Stade Gerland on Tuesday to be in danger of failing to advance from the first knockout stage for the sixth straight year.

Ronaldo said he’s “certain we will respond well in the return leg and win it” at Santiago Bernabeu stadium on March 10.

Madrid spent euro254 million on eight players in the off-season to try and win the Champions League, which will be played in May at the Bernabeu.