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Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that Portugal’s Round of 16 elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup marks the end of his international tournament journey, delivering an emotional yet proud assessment of his career with the national team.
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Portugal fell to rivals Spain 1-0 on Monday evening, with Mikel Merino scoring a dramatic stoppage-time winner at AT&T Stadium. The result ended Ronaldo’s final World Cup campaign at age 41, and his bid for World Cup glory ended in heartbreak.
Ronaldo reflects on legacy after Portugal's 2026 World Cup exit: "I won three titles…”
Speaking after the match, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner struck a positive tone. He said:
“I will wake up tomorrow with the same mood as I did today. I did my best.”
The Al Nassr striker highlighted his role in Portugal’s success. He said:
“I won three titles with Portugal, before me it was ZERO titles. I can only be happy.”
Ronaldo’s comments underscore his transformative impact on Portuguese football. Under his leadership, Portugal secured the UEFA Euro 2016 title and the 2019 UEFA Nations League, ending decades without major silverware.
Fans praised his longevity and contributions while critics debated his individual role in the team’s recent achievements. Despite the defeat, Ronaldo’s message stated gratitude and closure as he closes the chapter on his World Cup appearances.
The 41-year-old, currently playing for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, leaves the global stage having scored in six different World Cups and cemented his status as one of football’s all-time greats.
ALSO READ: Cristiano Ronaldo reflects on his last World Cup game after Portugal eliminated by Spain
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