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Portugal are out of the FIFA World Cup 2026 following a 0-1 loss to Spain in the Round of 16. It also marked the last World Cup game for Cristiano Ronaldo, who had earlier stated that this edition would be his final.
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As Ronaldo reflects on his international career following Portugal's exit, a wave of tributes has highlighted his pivotal role in ending decades of near-misses for the national team. Before Ronaldo's emergence, Portugal had never won a major senior international trophy.
Ronaldo transforms Portugal's trophy cabinet: From Zero to Three major honors
Since the Al Nassr forward’s debut in 2003 and subsequent captaincy, Portugal have secured three: the UEFA Euro 2016 title, the 2019 UEFA Nations League, and the 2025 Nations League crown.
While Ronaldo was famously injured during the Euro 2016 final and played a more limited role in some Nations League successes, his leadership, longevity, and goal-scoring prowess have been credited with elevating Portugal to consistent contenders on the global stage.
Fans and analysts continue to debate his overall influence, but the silverware tally speaks for itself. With Ronaldo confirming the 2026 tournament as his last, the football world is taking stock of a career that reshaped a nation's footballing identity.
ALSO READ: Watch: Lamine Yamal hugs Cristiano Ronaldo in a heartwarming moment after Portugal's World Cup exit
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