Thomas Sinicki, Media365: Published on Saturday, July 6, 2024 at 7:06 p.m.
Twilight now seems inevitable for Cristiano Ronaldo, who is no longer achieving much with Portugal.
Cristiano Ronaldo did not score during Euro 2024. However, in five matches, there was no shortage of chances, because he was a consistent starter – unlike the 2022 World Cup – and even in the match that was not counted against Georgia (2- 0 defeat). This is the first time in his career that the five-time Ballon d'Or winner, 39, has not scored even once during a major international tournament.
Neves: “We know everything he stands for”
In fact, Cristiano Ronaldo scored two goals in the 2004 European Championship, one in the 2006 World Cup, one in the 2008 European Championship, one in the 2010 World Cup, three in the 2012 European Championship, one in the 2014 World Cup, and three in the European Championship. 2016, and four in the World Cup. The 2018 World Cup, five in the 2021 European Championship and one in the 2022 World Cup, and therefore zero during the 2024 European Championship, which seems like a clear swan song for the captain who has become very tired in the national team. But will Portugal finally be able to free itself from its myth?
“This is not the time to make individual decisions,” coach Roberto Martinez confirmed after the elimination by France on Friday evening, in the quarter-finals of the Euro Championship, which ended on penalties (0-0, tab: 5-3). After another training session against Slovenia, in which Cristiano Ronaldo succeeded in his attempt – like on Friday – following the famous missed penalty kick in extra time by the former Real Madrid star, who managed to hold back his tears in the middle of the match, he faced this failure. “We know everything he represents for our country or for football. He deserved to leave with a victory. We must above all thank him for his exemplary nature and everything he conveys, not only on the field but also abroad.” Al Hilal player Pepe was included, which still suggests that the end is really near for Cristiano Ronaldo.
