There were mixed emotions on the pitch after the referee whistled full time. As the Moroccans celebrated a stunning victory to become the first African nation to reach the semi-finals of the World Cup, the Portuguese players were stunned and the images of a tearful Ronaldo returning to the tunnel melted the hearts.
The end of the Ronaldo story 💔💔 #CR7𓃵 https://t.co/YimHUsUb17… https://t.co/YimHUsUb17
— Adel (@iAdeeeeel) 1670692602000
At 37, this could well be Ronaldo’s final World Cup appearance, having started the quarter-final on the bench and later came on as a substitute. It was Ronaldo’s 196th international cap, equaling the men’s all-time record.
Ronaldo was part of the Portugal squad that won Euro 2016. But holding the World Cup trophy may now remain an unfulfilled desire for one of the game’s greats.
Very sad to see @Cristiano in tears at the end of his dream of winning the World Cup. Those who laugh at him should remember… https://t.co/uOnIroEOHC
— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) 1670696413000
On Saturday against Morocco, Ronaldo was never released and only had one shot on goal after coming on as a substitute.
Now, having been let down by yet another failure on the game’s biggest stage, Ronaldo will also have to take a call on his club career.
He is currently without a club. His association with Manchester United ended following his controversial comments during a TV interview.
(With contributions from the agency)
