Cristiano Ronaldo expressed sadness following Portugal’s elimination from the FIFA World Cup round of 16 but stated he would not make any “rash decisions” about his international future. Speaking after the match, held in Dallas, the Portugal captain acknowledged the tournament was likely his last World Cup appearance.
“I am sad to be leaving the World Cup like this. I gave it my all. I did my best, and I am leaving with a clear conscience. It was my last World Cup, yes, but I will now have time to reflect and be with my family. I would not be making any rash decisions,” Ronaldo said. He added, “I don’t make decisions in the heat of the moment.”
Reflecting on his career with the national team, Ronaldo noted Portugal had not won any titles before his involvement. During his tenure, the country secured the Euro 2016 and two UEFA Nations League championships. He described the European Championship victory as equally significant to winning the World Cup.
“I have won three titles for Portugal; before Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal hadn’t won a single title. The biggest title the national team has ever won was in 2016, the European Championship, which, to be honest, is just as significant to me as a World Cup,” he said.
Portugal exited the tournament after a stoppage-time goal by Mikel Merino secured victory for their opponents. Ronaldo expressed praise for team manager Roberto Martínez, who also confirmed his departure following the elimination.
“I loved working with him,” Ronaldo remarked. “A great manager, a great human being, and what he’s done for Portugal is to be commended. I want to thank him and wish him every happiness… It is always sad to be knocked out of a major tournament. It is the World Cup. The team was really coming into its own. We played well, in my view. It could have gone either way, but that’s football. We have to pick ourselves up and carry on,” he concluded.
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