At the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Portugal was eliminated in the round of 32 after a 1-0 defeat to Spain. The decisive goal came late from Mikel Merino. Cristiano Ronaldo showed strong emotion following the result and later addressed fans with an apology while thanking them for their backing.
“We gave it our all, but we couldn’t make it. We’re truly sorry, and it’s impossible to put our feelings into words. Thank you, everyone, for all the incredible support,” he told reporters.
“I’ve given everything, I’ve given my best, and I leave with a clear conscience. This is soccer, this is life for a soccer player. Sometimes you win and sometimes you lose,” he added.
Ronaldo, the only player to score in six straight World Cups and the all-time leader in international goals with 146, had said before the match that he hoped it would not be his last and wanted to enjoy the occasion fully.
On future plans, he said he was not prepared to decide immediately.
“Yes, it was my last World Cup, but everything else I’ll have time to think about, to be with my family, and not make any decision hot-headed and move on with life,” he said.
Ronaldo was stopped from scoring in the first half when goalkeeper Unai Simon produced a strong leaping save. Ronaldo had three shots during the match.
