Cristiano Ronaldo, one of football’s greatest icons, has had a storied career with the Portugal national team. Here’s a breakdown of his performances in major tournaments with Portugal, excluding Euro 2024:
Ronaldo’s Record-Breaking Achievements
Ronaldo is the all-time leading scorer for Portugal with 130 goals, many coming in major tournaments. He holds the record for the most goals scored at the European Championship (14). Additionally, he has won two major trophies with Portugal: Euro 2016 and the UEFA Nations League Finals in 2019.
The Heartbreak of Euro 2024
Portugal manager Roberto Martinez has made no definitive decisions regarding the international futures of Cristiano Ronaldo and Pepe after their loss to France at Euro 2024. Both players have been integral to Portugal’s campaign, with the 39-year-old Ronaldo playing every minute of both the shootout win over Slovenia in the last 16 and the quarter-final defeat on penalties by France. Pepe also made history, becoming the oldest player in European Championship history at 41.
After Friday’s loss, the pair shared a poignant embrace, with Pepe in tears as Ronaldo consoled him. “His tears are frustration,” said Martinez. “Pepe is a role model in Portuguese football. What he did tonight and in the tournament will stay with us for the next generations.”
A Tournament of Frustrations
Ronaldo’s Euro 2024 campaign has been challenging, with his position in the team constantly scrutinized due to his failure to score in any of his five appearances. Despite missing an extra-time penalty against Slovenia, he redeemed himself in the shootout, helping Portugal advance. However, he cut a frustrated figure during the defeat by France, raising doubts about his future with the national team.
Former Portugal defender Jose Fonte suggested it might be time for Ronaldo and Pepe to step aside for the younger generation. “They’ve achieved so much for Portugal; sometimes you just have to give your place to the young boys coming up and let them show their talent,” Fonte told BBC Sport.
Ronaldo’s Struggles at Euro 2024
Ronaldo’s statistics at Euro 2024 highlight his struggles:
- This tournament marks the first time Ronaldo has failed to score at a major international event, his 11th.
- He has not scored in open play at a major tournament since the group stage of Euro 2021.
- Ronaldo had 23 shots in Portugal’s five games at Euro 2024, more than any other player, yet failed to find the net.
- His expected goals across all five games was 0.692.
Despite these difficulties, manager Martinez has resisted benching Ronaldo. BBC Sport pundit Chris Sutton criticized Martinez for his “obsession” with Ronaldo, calling it a “lack of imagination” and suggesting that Ronaldo’s presence is hampering the team. Danny Murphy echoed this sentiment, saying, “It does seem ridiculous at times that he keeps Ronaldo on when he is having no impact.”
Conclusion
Cristiano Ronaldo’s journey with Portugal has been filled with incredible highs and some heartbreaking lows. As he and Pepe contemplate their futures, their contributions to Portuguese football remain unparalleled. Whether or not they continue, their legacy will inspire future generations.
