Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has brought the curtain down on his World Cup career after Portugal’s 1-0 Round of 16 defeat to Spain, declaring that winning the 2016 European Championship means just as much to him as lifting the FIFA World Cup.
A dramatic stoppage-time strike from Mikel Merino secured Spain’s victory in Arlington, Texas, ending Ronaldo’s sixth and final World Cup appearance.
Speaking after the match, the 41-year-old football icon reflected on his international career, insisting he has no regrets despite never winning football’s biggest trophy.
“I’ve won Euro 2016 and for me it has the same dimension as the World Cup. That remains forever. Tomorrow is a new day, and we go,” Ronaldo said.
The Portuguese legend stressed that he leaves international football with a clear conscience, pointing to the historic success he helped bring to Portugal.
“I did my best. I won three titles with Portugal; before me it was zero titles. I can only be happy,” he said.
Ronaldo confirmed the Spain defeat marked his final World Cup campaign, adding that he would now spend time with his family before deciding on the next chapter of his career.
“I’m leaving with a clear conscience. Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. I’m sad after being eliminated like this, but I gave everything. We played well, although Spain are one of the best teams and can reach the final,” he added.
Ronaldo ends his World Cup journey with 27 appearances and 11 goals across six tournaments. His best World Cup finish came in 2006 when Portugal reached the semi-finals.
Although the World Cup title eluded him, Ronaldo’s international honours include the 2016 UEFA European Championship and two UEFA Nations League titles, achievements he believes define his legacy with Portugal.
Spain progress to the quarter-finals, where they will face the winner of the USA versus Belgium clash.
