Cristiano Ronaldo’s history in the World Cup came to an end. The captain of This Monday, Portugal played the last World Cup match of its career after its team’s 0-1 defeat against Spain, in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup. The result put an end to a career marked by records, leadership and a golden generation that led Portuguese football to win its first major international titles.
The Iberian duel was intense, balanced and with few differences between both teams. For much of the match, Portugal managed to contain a Spanish team that dominated possession of the ball, while the Portuguese tried to do damage with quick transitions and the experience of their main references.
However, when everything seemed to be heading towards a closer outcome, Spain found the goal in the final minutes to seal qualification and eliminate one of the main contenders for the title.
After the final whistle, Cristiano Ronaldo did not hide his sadness at the elimination, although he assured that he leaves with his head held high and satisfied with everything he achieved with his country’s shirt. “I’m sad to leave the World Cup like this, but I’ve given everything, my best. I leave with a clear conscience. That’s football, sometimes you win and sometimes you lose”declared the forward in the mixed zone. At 41 years old, the Portuguese star confirmed that this was his last World Cup.
Beyond the elimination, Ronaldo highlighted the legacy he leaves in the Portuguese team. Under his leadership, Portugal won the three most important titles in its history: Euro 2016, the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and a second Nations League in 2025, trophies that transformed the competitive dimension of the Portuguese team. “Before Cristiano, Portugal did not have any titles. I have won three titles with Portugal. I am happy. The biggest title I won with the national team was in 2016; for me it has the same dimension as a World Cup,” he stated.
The 2016 Euro Cup in France is still considered by many to be the greatest feat in the history of Portuguese football. That championship allowed Portugal to break decades of frustrations and consolidate itself among the continent’s powers.
The goodbye of an era
The elimination against Spain not only meant the end of Portugal’s journey in the 2026 World Cup. It also represented the World Cup farewell to one of the most influential footballers of all time.
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β SPL πΈπ¦ (@ActuSPL) July 6, 2026