Portugal vs Spain: Ronaldo’s biggest wish remained unfulfilled, he cried bitterly over Portugal’s defeat; Big talk on retirement

By Samira Vishwas On Jul 7, 2026

Portugal vs Spain: The FIFA World Cup journey of Portugal’s legendary striker Cristiano Ronaldo is over forever. After the 1-0 defeat in the pre-quarterfinals against Spain, 41-year-old Ronaldo confirmed that this was the last World Cup of his career. After the end of the match, he looked very emotional and tears were seen in his eyes while greeting the fans present in the stadium.

In the match played at AT&T Stadium (Dallas), Texas, USA, Spain won 1-0 thanks to a goal by Mikel Merino in the first minute of stoppage time of the second half. With this defeat, Portugal’s journey in the tournament ended, while Spain made it to the quarter-finals.

Even the best poetry cannot be written again in appreciation.
Cristiano Ronaldo must finally accept the fact that he never really focused on winning the World Cup. Although he maintained the highest physical level till the age of 41, he led… pic.twitter.com/PGhIcbxT7z
— PanditFootball.com (@panditfootball) July 6, 2026

I gave my 100 percent: Ronaldo
After the match, Ronaldo said that it is sad to be out of the World Cup like this, but he is satisfied that he gave his 100 percent on the field. He said, ‘I am sad that I have to leave the World Cup like this. But I gave it my all and my conscience is completely clean. This is the life of a player, one has to move forward.

The full video of Cristiano Ronaldo leaving the field.
Nadie will forget your legacy.
The whole world loves you.
Gracias for so much and forgiveness for so many.
MY IDOL OF POOR LIFE ♥️🐐 pic.twitter.com/n9tOAaxiyX
— (fan) REAL MADRID FANS 🤍 (@AdriRM33) July 6, 2026

Ronaldo played his last World Cup
Ronaldo made it clear that this was his last World Cup. However, he did not give any final decision on the question of retiring from the national team. He said that for now he wants to spend time with his family and will not take any decision due to emotions.

Ronaldo played 27 World Cup matches
Ronaldo now holds the record of playing 27 matches in the World Cup. Only Argentina’s Lionel Messi is ahead of him, who has played 30 World Cup matches. Ronaldo scored a total of 11 goals in the World Cup, which is the joint ninth most goals in the history of this tournament. He is also the only player in the world to score a goal in 6 different World Cups. He scored three goals in this World Cup.

World Cup heartbreak for Ronaldo 💔 pic.twitter.com/Atb5rocBiw
— B/R Football (@brfootball) July 6, 2026

Ronaldo’s dream of winning the World Cup remains unfulfilled
However, the dream of winning the World Cup trophy remained unfulfilled. Ronaldo’s biggest achievement was the semi-final of the 2006 World Cup. Apart from this, he played an important role in helping Portugal win the 2016 Euro Cup and two UEFA Nations League titles. He said that the 2016 Euro Cup title is equivalent to winning the World Cup for him.

Portugal head coach Roberto Martínez also praised Ronaldo. He said that Ronaldo is not just a goalscorer but an inspiration for the entire team. His dedication, leadership and passion for the game on the field is an example for every player. Martínez also said that the decision to keep Ronaldo on the field for 90 minutes was right because when the team needs goals, its biggest goalscorer cannot be left out.

This defeat may have ended Cristiano Ronaldo’s golden chapter on football’s biggest stage, but his records, achievements and passion for the game will always keep him at the top of the list of great players.