Ronaldo Breaks World Cup Knockout Drought
Cristiano Ronaldo finally scored his first World Cup knockout goal on Thursday, finding the net for Portugal against Croatia in the last-32. The 41-year-old converted a penalty to bag his 146th international goal, equalising after Ivan Perisic had given Croatia the lead.
Ronaldo had played in six World Cups prior to this tournament but had never scored outside the group stages. His strike in the 2026 edition marks a historic moment, ending a long-standing hoodoo for the Portugal captain.
Sister Hints at International Retirement
Before the match, Ronaldo's sister, Katia Aveiro, suggested that this could be his final tournament for Portugal. Speaking to Portuguese broadcaster SportTV, she said: "From the information I have, they can say goodbye. Enjoy it while it lasts. It's not today that they're saying goodbye, but it's soon. I believe this is their farewell."
Aveiro added: "For intelligent people, those who like football have to like Ronaldo. Those who don't like Ronaldo don't like football. They're the ones who lose out. He's been tearing it up for over 20 years."
Historic Achievement at 41
Ronaldo's goal came at a stage where he could be entering his final matches on the international stage. Having debuted for Portugal in 2003, he has amassed 146 goals in over 200 appearances. His penalty against Croatia was his first in a World Cup knockout match, a milestone that had eluded him throughout his illustrious career.
The match against Croatia was a tense affair, with Perisic opening the scoring before Ronaldo's spot-kick levelled the game. The result keeps Portugal's hopes alive in the tournament as they seek to advance further.
