Bafana Bafana legend Benni McCarthy reveals why he has never teased Ronaldo despite beating him thrice - 'I didn't have to'

During his active days, South African legend Benni McCarthy was one of the deadly strikers who was feared by defenders.

He played for Ajax, Celta Vigo, Porto, Blackburn Rovers, and West Ham United, among others.

The now 47-year-old concluded his career in Mzansi with Orlando Pirates.

When he was playing for Porto in Portugal, legendary striker Cristiano Ronaldo was turning out for Sporting Lisbon.

The latter was establishing himself in the football world while McCarthy had already found his footing.

The two attackers were reunited in English football and in the 2006-07 season, the former Bafana Bafana forward scored 18 goals, one more than Ronaldo.

Just recently, McCarthy was employed as Manchester United strikers' coach.

He worked with Ronaldo before the attacker fell out with the then-manager Erik ten Hag and left for Al Nassr.

In his recent interview with iDiski Times, McCarthy explained why he did not remind Ronaldo of the times he beat him on the pitch.

“No, I didn’t have to [tease him]; I couldn’t! Because he’ll be like, ‘Benni’... I was above him only three times in his career, twice in Portugal, and then once in the Premier League," he stated.

“And after that look what he’s gone and achieved. So uh-uh, I couldn’t be comparing notes like that with him!" McCarthy concluded.

After leaving Manchester United in the summer, McCarthy is currently a free agent but is open to working with a team that shows serious interest.

He was initially linked with Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs. It will be interesting to see where he will be working in the future.