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Cristiano Ronaldo Scored Last-Minute Winner On His 200th Appearance For Portugal [Video]
Cristiano Ronaldo made history on his landmark 200th appearance for Portugal, netting a last-minute winner in their European Championship qualifier against Iceland.
Prior to kickoff at the Laugardalsvöllur Stadium, the Al Nassr striker was honored with a Guinness World Record plaque, becoming the first male player to reach the remarkable milestone of 200 international appearances.
Reflecting on his achievement before the match, Ronaldo expressed his pride, saying, “Two hundred games played proves the love I have for my country. For me, it is an extremely important milestone. It means a lot. I’m very proud because this is something I never thought I could reach. And I’m continuing to set records.”
Taking his place in the starting lineup alongside talents such as Rafael Leao, Bernardo Silva, and Bruno Fernandes, the 38-year-old forward added to his astounding international goal tally of 123.
Cristiano Ronaldo receives a Guinness World Record award for becoming the first men’s player to reach 200 international caps. pic.twitter.com/QeylngnGuE
— TC (@totalcristiano) June 20, 2023
Displaying his trademark predatory instincts inside the box, Ronaldo capitalized on Goncalo Inacio’s cushioned header to poke home the winning goal.
While Roberto Martinez’s team secured the victory to maintain their flawless record in Group J, the evening was truly Ronaldo’s, as he etched his name into football history once again.
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Following the game, Ronaldo expressed his elation, stating, “For me, it’s an unbelievable achievement, it’s amazing. And, of course, to score the winning goal, it’s even more special.”
He continued, “We didn’t play so well, but sometimes football is like that. But we scored a goal, and in my opinion, we deserved it. I’m so happy because of 200 caps, but this is even more special.”
Looking ahead to Euro 2024, Ronaldo reaffirmed his dedication to the national team, stating, “I would never turn my back on my colleagues and my country.” At the 2022 Gala Quinas de Ouro last year, the former Real Madrid and Manchester United star expressed his desire to continue representing Portugal for “a few more years.”
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“I still feel motivated, my ambition is high. My path in the national team is not over. We have many quality youngsters,” Ronaldo proclaimed. “I will be at the World Cup, and I want to be at the European Championship in 2024.”
As Ronaldo’s illustrious career continues to unfold, his legacy as one of the game’s greatest-ever players grows stronger with each milestone achieved and record shattered.
Watch Cristiano Ronaldo goal below:
Ronaldo scores winner against Iceland pic.twitter.com/ZN0fDP8FHf
— aminfc (@thego3t) June 20, 2023
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