PARIS: Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a remarkable career spanning more than two decades with Portugal’s national team.
The forward scored a record 146 goals in 234 appearances after making his international debut in 2003, establishing himself as one of the most influential players in the country’s football history.
As Portugal bids farewell to its record goalscorer, here are five defining moments from his international career.
2013: Hat-trick Sends Portugal to World Cup
Ronaldo delivered a memorable performance against Sweden in the 2014 World Cup qualifying play-off.
After Portugal won the first leg 1-0, Ronaldo scored in the return fixture in Stockholm. Despite Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s two goals, the Portuguese forward completed his hat-trick with two goals in two minutes to secure qualification for the tournament in Brazil.
2016: European Championship Glory
Portugal’s Euro 2016 triumph remains one of Ronaldo’s greatest international achievements.
Having struggled during the group stage, Portugal reached the final against hosts France in Paris.
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Ronaldo was forced off with an injury after 25 minutes and watched the remainder of the match from the touchline. His teammates eventually secured a 1-0 victory through Eder’s extra-time goal, delivering Portugal its first major international trophy.
2018: Hat-trick Against Spain
Ronaldo produced another outstanding performance at the 2018 World Cup, scoring all three goals in Portugal’s 3-3 draw against Spain.
His performance included a late free-kick that secured a dramatic point in Portugal’s opening match.
2025: Nations League Success
At 40, Ronaldo continued to deliver on the international stage, scoring against Germany in the semi-final of the Nations League before netting against Spain in the final.
Portugal eventually lifted the trophy after winning the penalty shootout.
2026: World Cup Victory Over Croatia
Ronaldo also featured prominently in Portugal’s World Cup campaign in 2026.
He scored a penalty to equalise against Croatia in the last 32 before Goncalo Ramos secured a 2-1 victory with a late header.
Portugal subsequently exited the tournament against eventual champions Spain.
With 146 international goals and 234 appearances, Ronaldo leaves behind a record-breaking legacy that will remain a defining chapter in Portuguese football.
