Real Madrid defender Pepe has declared teammate Cristiano Ronaldo the best in the world after his winner at Rayo Vallecano.

Ronaldo struck with an audacious back heel to be the difference.

"The victory is the best birthday present I could have hoped for. Rayo made things very difficult for us. Cristiano's goal was a work of art. He proved he is the best player in the world," said Pepe.