Ronaldo pays tribute to Zamorano

SANTIAGO, Chile (Reuters) -- Brazil's Ronaldo paid tribute to Ivan Zamorano after playing in the former Chilean striker's farewell match in front of a 50,000 crowd.

"He fully deserved this celebration," said the Real Madrid striker, who left Spain on Sunday night and flew for 15 hours to play in the game on Monday night at Santiago's National Stadium.

"He's dedicated his life to football and it was very emotional to see everyone applauding him. I hope my farewell will be as good as this."

Argentine striker Andres D'Alessandro, retired Colombian midfielder Carlos Valderrama and former Paraguay goalkeeper Jose Luis Chilavert also took part in the match between an international team and a local 11.

"It's over," said 36-year-old Zamorano, wrapped in a Chilean flag.

"There's always a moment to say goodbye. Thank you to everyone.

"I'm a very lucky man. Football has given me everything and I'm very satisfied."

Zamorano played for Real Madrid, Inter Milan and Mexico's America before returning to his homeland at the start of this year to end his career with Colo Colo, the team he supported as a boy.

He announced his retirement in July after ending his career on a low note when he was sent off and banned for 11 games for pushing the referee during the second leg of the Chilean championship final against Cobreloa.

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