A milestone with meaning
At 39 years old, Cristiano Ronaldo is preparing for his sixth appearance at the FIFA World Cup, a milestone that few players ever reach.
Speaking ahead of Portugal's last‑16 clash with Spain, the veteran forward said he will bring an end to his international career on his own terms, rejecting any notion that external pressures should dictate his departure.
Ronaldo, who has already netted three goals in the tournament, admitted that this edition feels more enjoyable than any of his previous five World Cups, citing the energy of the squad and the camaraderie within the team.
He also reflected on his personal record against Spain, recalling a hat‑trick scored in the 2018 edition and a total of four goals against the Iberian rivals, while acknowledging that Spain enters the match as the tournament favourite.
Despite the odds, the Portuguese star expressed confidence that his side can compete, emphasizing that the match will be a test of strategy and resilience rather than a simple showdown.
Looking ahead, Ronaldo hinted at a desire to remain involved in the sport beyond his playing days, suggesting that his World Cup journey may not be a final chapter but a continuation of a long‑term love affair with football.