Portugal has crashed out of the ongoing FIFA World Cup after losing 1-0 to Spain in the round of 16 on Monday night, leaving 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo in tears. Portugal, which was considered one of the hot favourites to lift this edition of the FIFA World Cup, had no one but themselves to blame as the only goal of the match came in the form of an own goal, giving Spain the lead.
Portugal tried hard to equalise throughout the second half but despite coming close on multiple occasions, they failed to convert the chances into a goal. It is pertinent to mention that the World Cup trophy remains the only major accolade that Ronaldo has not won.
Now, at the sixth time of asking, he will have to come to terms with the reality that he and his team have lost a golden chance.
After the match Ronaldo was in tears, perhaps understanding that this was his last and final chance to win the World Cup.
He had confirmed before the match that this would be his last World Cup but did not say he would definitely retire from international football. “I’m sad to be leaving the World Cup like this," he said.
"I gave it my all. I did my best and I'm leaving with a clear conscience. It was my last World Cup, yes, but I'll now have time to reflect and be with my family. I won't be making any rash decisions."
In terms of overall stats, he remains the most decorated player in international football history, having scored 146 goals in 233 appearances for his country. His crowning moment came in 2016 when Portugal won the European Championship.
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