Luis Figo defends Cristiano Ronaldo

Former Portuguese international Luis Figo has defended Cristiano Ronaldo's decision to host a birthday party just hours after Real Madrid lost 4-0 at Atletico Madrid on Saturday.

Ronaldo has faced criticism in various sections for holding the gathering after such a heavy defeat to their closest rivals, but Figo has thrown his support behind his fellow countryman.

"Anyone who doubts Cristiano Ronaldo's passion for professionalism and that of Real Madrid's is completely without knowledge of their history and character," Figo tweeted.

The likes of Fabio Coentrao, Marcelo, Keylor Navas, James Rodriguez and Luka Modric were among those present at the venue, but Gareth Bale chose not to attend.