Cristiano Ronaldo made history again as Portugal edged Croatia 2-1 in the round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Thursday, July 2, 2026, securing a spot in the round of 16.
The 41-year-old captain started the match and converted a crucial penalty kick, helping his team advance while dedicating a message to fans in South America.
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"It's always 100% special when I speak to Brazil, not only because I have family there.
I really like the Brazilian people because I have always received a lot of affection and support from Brazilians throughout my career.
I take the opportunity to send a kiss to everyone. Thank you, it's a pleasure to be here," Ronaldo said in a post-match interview with Cazé TV.
The match was filled with drama for the veteran forward, who had a goal disallowed by a tight VAR review before scoring the penalty.
"I had a feeling there would be a penalty. I was prepared for it, because I felt it was going to happen.
It's hard, I won't deny it, the heartbeat is very fast, but I tried to trust what I feel as my instinct, and trust that I would score.
That's what I always do.
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And it turned out well, it was an important emotional moment for all of us, after scoring, we felt we could win the game...
