Cristiano Ronaldo on World Cup exit: 'Portugal won nothing before me'

Cristiano Ronaldo reflected on his storied international career after Portugal's World Cup elimination, stating that before his time, the national team had achieved nothing. The captain's comments came after Portugal's 0-1 loss to Spain in the Round of 16, marking his final appearance on the World Cup stage.

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Before me, Portugal had won nothing.

"A farewell after a tough fight always leaves a bitter aftertaste. We played a good game and I think it could have turned out differently, but that's football. Spain had some luck, scoring at the end of the match," Ronaldo said, expressing his sadness at exiting the tournament in this manner but emphasizing he left with a clear conscience.

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A farewell after a tough fight always leaves a bitter aftertaste. We played a good game and I think it could have turned out differently, but that's football. Spain had some luck, scoring at the match's end.

Ronaldo, who holds the record for most appearances (233) and goals (146) for Portugal, has been part of a successful era for the national team, winning the 2016 European Championship and the 2019 Nations League. He reiterated his satisfaction with his achievements, stating that the European title a decade ago holds the same weight for him as a World Cup victory.

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I am sad to say goodbye to the World Cup in this way, but as I said, I gave my all and I leave with a clear conscience.

He also defended national team coach Roberto Martinez, who faced criticism and confirmed his departure after the loss. "I would like to say that I enjoyed working with him. He is a great coach and person. What he has done for Portugal is commendable. He won a trophy with Portugal. Many do not appreciate it, but Portugal had won nothing before, and recently they have been winning trophies, which shows how good you have to be for such an achievement," Ronaldo stated, expressing gratitude for Martinez's contributions.

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With Portugal, I have won three trophies. Before me, Portugal had won nothing. I am satisfied. The biggest success was the European Championship title ten years ago. The European title has the same weight for me as winning the World Cup. Tomorrow is a new day, life goes on.