Speaking after Portugal’s thrilling win over Croatia in the Round of 32 on Thursday (local time), Ronaldo dismissed his retirement news. The 41 year old captain of the Portugal side said he was focused solely on the tournament and would take a decision on his future only after Portugal’s campaign comes to an end, quashing fears spread by his own sister.
“I don’t make reckless decisions,” Ronaldo said after Portugal’s win over Croatia on Thursday (local time), as quoted by local news.
“I will decide after the tournament, not now,” the goat player added.
During the clash between Croatia and Portugal, Ronaldo scripted history becoming the oldest player to score in a FIFA World Cup knockout match. It is worth noting that it is also the first-ever goal in Knockout matches for Al-Nassr captain Ronaldo, who is featuring in his record sixth FIFA World Cup.
In the 67th minute, after a VAR review awarded Portugal a spot-kick, Ronaldo scored the penalty, cancelling out Ivan Perisic’s opener for Croatia and bringing Roberto Martinez’s side level.
Portugal with a 2-1 staged a dramatic comeback victory over Croatia in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32, with substitute Goncalo Ramos heading home a stoppage-time winner to send Roberto Martinez’s side into the Round of 16. Croatia had taken the lead through Ivan Perisic, who became the country’s all-time leading World Cup scorer, before Cristiano Ronaldo equalised from the penalty.
The legendary footballer was also named Player of the Match for his superb performance throughout the match. Ronaldo had never scored a World Cup knockout-stage goal in his eight appearances for Portugal prior to this match.