Breaking: Ronaldo confirms international retirement after Portugal's 1-0 World Cup loss to Spain
Portugal's 2026 World Cup journey ended in the last-16 with a 1-0 loss to Spain, as Mikel Merino's late goal secured La Roja's quarter-final spot. Immediately after the match, captain Cristiano Ronaldo confirmed this was his final international appearance, announcing his retirement from Portugal's national team.
Ronaldo expressed disappointment at the elimination but emphasized he had given his absolute best: 'I’m sad now after being eliminated like this… but I gave it all, my very best.’ He framed his international career positively, noting he won three titles with Portugal – their first major trophies – and could ‘only be happy’ with that legacy.
For Nigerian football fans who grew up watching Ronaldo’s legendary rivalry with Messi, this marks the end of an era. His departure from international football closes the chapter on one of the game’s greatest players who finally delivered major silverware to Portugal. While he may continue playing at club level, his international retirement invites reflection on a career defined by extraordinary longevity, professionalism, and inspiration for African players aspiring to European stardom.
Ronaldo leaves the national team having fulfilled his promise of bringing trophies to Portugal, leaving fans to remember not just his goals but his relentless winning mentality that elevated an entire generation.