Following Portugal’s quarterfinal loss to Morocco by a score of 1-0, Cristiano Ronaldo is seen leaving the field in tears.
The 37-year-old entered the game as a substitute for Ruben Neves in the 51st minute with Portugal down 1-0 thanks to a goal from Youssef En-Nesyri in the first half.
Despite Portugal doing everything they could to score an equalizer, the former Real Madrid and Juventus footballer was unable to motivate his nation to get back into the game.
Late in the game, Ronaldo had an opportunity to score, but his right-footed effort was deflected into Yassine Bounou’s hands. His teammates also had late opportunities, including a header from Pepe.
The former Manchester United player was heartbroken upon hearing the final whistle since he had been unable to fulfill his wish to have one last chance to win the biggest international title in sport.
The following World Cup will take be held in the summer of 2026, and since Ronaldo will be 41 at that time, it was probably his last chance to take home the trophy.
Despite sitting out of two of Portugal’s games, the five-time winner of the ballon d’or did manage to set a few records in Qatar.
He became the first player to score in five different World Cups when he did so in their opening match. Later, when he came off the bench against Morocco, he tied the record for most men’s international appearances.
Ronaldo, who is currently without a club, equals Badr Al-Mutawa of Kuwait in terms of overall goals scored, adding to the list of records set during his illustrious career.
