Cristiano Ronaldo near retirement as Portugal advances and reflects on past triumphs

Cristiano Ronaldo scored his first knockout‑stage goal for Portugal, helping the team defeat Croatia in extra time at the World Cup. After the win, he told Portuguese media that his future is not a priority now and he will speak about retirement only after the tournament. His sister, Kátia Aveiro, hinted that Ronaldo’s international career may be nearing its end, describing it as his "last dance" with the national team.

Former Euro 2016 hero Éder recalled how Ronaldo unexpectedly handed him a microphone during the post‑tournament celebrations, thrusting him into the spotlight. Éder described the sudden fame, the hostile reception he later faced in France, and the challenges of adjusting to life as a national hero after Portugal’s European Championship win.