It was the small highlight of this friendly encounter on Tuesday evening between Portugal and Ireland. After defeat to Croatia, Roberto Martinez's side needed to reassure themselves. But this match was also an opportunity for the Portuguese coach to give playing time to Cristiano Ronaldo, who has been rested so far after his season with Al-Nassr. At the age of 39, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner also wanted to prove that he can do more than just play a substitute role at the front of the Portuguese attack occupied by Parisian Gonzalo Ramos.
Along with Leao and Joao Felix, Cristiano Ronaldo clearly did not miss the opportunity to shine in this match. A match he started with a look that had its secret from a free kick. His floating shot crushed the Irish goalkeeper's stationary post. There is no reason to give up on him because after having a very interesting first spell by just being available and technically, he ended up finding the back of the net. After a series of leg passes, he sent a left shot into the top corner. Ten minutes later, he did it again by receiving a cross from Diogo Jota perfectly, and with the first goal. A way to show that he still has a lot to offer as he will play the sixth Euro of his career.
Cristiano Ronaldo finally starts the Euros?
After the match, the Portuguese legend spoke about his ambition to win the Euro again and about his personal situation as he logically approaches retirement. “It's good to have your feet on the ground, but your mind to the sky, and that means dreaming about the European Cup. We dream and we are ready. You have to go step by step, but dreaming is free. We have talent, but as I often say, talent must be worked on, no Nobody gives you anything and the team is ready to work. I trust you RTP Before going into more details about his level of play.
“I know I don't have many years left in football. As they say in Spain, every year is a gift that passes and I can continue playing. Playing after the age of 35 or 36 is already a gift, now I'm 39 and every year I try to enjoy it. The thing is The important thing is to be healthy physically and mentally so you can help the team and, as you know, I have an eternal love for the national team. I have been here for 20 years and I just want to continue. I love football. Every match has a special character. Imagine being in the European Championship with Portugal You feel proud… It's a dream, like when I was 20 years old. A mentality that remains as impressive as ever, even more so at his age, which clearly suited his coach Roberto Martinez who did not fail to praise his performance at the end of the match. “His commitment as a captain is unbelievable. When a player like Cristiano, who scored two goals, is in the penalty area and the first option is to help his teammate, it shows solidarity, camaraderie and important values for the dressing room going to the Euros.”. Portugal will be a serious team to watch during the Euros. The first match is against the Czech Republic on Tuesday at 9pm and CR7 may start…
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