KABUL (Pajhwok): Cristiano Ronaldo’s remarkable World Cup journey has reached its final chapter without the one trophy that remained missing from his glittering career, after Portugal suffered a 1-0 defeat to Spain in the Round of 16.
According to the BBC, Ronaldo was left in tears after Mikel Merino’s stoppage-time goal sent Spain through to the quarter-finals and ended Portugal’s World Cup hopes.
Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d’Or winner, five-time Champions League champion and Euro 2016 winner, finishes his World Cup career as one of the tournament’s most recognisable figures. He scored at a record six World Cups and has netted 976 goals for club and country.
His closest opportunity to claim the biggest prize in football came in his first World Cup appearance in 2006, when Portugal reached the semi-finals before falling short.
Ronaldo had already confirmed that the 2026 tournament would be his final World Cup, but he left open the possibility of continuing his international career.
“I will meet the family and take decisions with a calm head,” he said after the match when asked about his future with Portugal.
Despite his individual achievements, Ronaldo’s final World Cup campaign was surrounded by debate over his role in the team and whether Portugal’s reliance on the veteran forward affected their chances.
Portugal coach Roberto Martinez, who announced his departure after the defeat, defended the veteran star and praised his contribution to the national team.
“We need to thank him for what he tried to do at this World Cup,” Martinez said. “His dream was to win this World Cup, and he showed an amazing example.”
From a teenage talent at the 2006 tournament to a global icon in 2026, Ronaldo’s World Cup story has been defined by records, determination and an unfulfilled pursuit of football’s greatest trophy.
PAN Monitor/sa
