Ronaldo's World Cup dream ends in tears as Portugal crashes out; coach departs

Cristiano Ronaldo's illustrious World Cup career concluded in tears following Portugal's 1-0 exit to Spain in the Round of 16. The 41-year-old five-time Ballon d'Or winner, who has scored a record 976 goals for club and country and netted in a record six World Cups, saw his quest for the sport's ultimate prize end without success.

Portugal's semi-final appearance in 2006 remains Ronaldo's closest brush with World Cup glory. Having already declared this tournament as his last, Ronaldo expressed uncertainty about his future playing for the national team post-match, stating he would discuss decisions with his family. Questions linger about whether Portugal might have fared better without the pressure to start the Al-Nassr star in every game.

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He's waddling around the field like a grandad, that's why Portugal are out. Cristiano Ronaldo does nothing; he did nothing. What is Roberto Martinez doing? How can you pander to a player so much?

BBC pundit Chris Sutton was highly critical of Ronaldo's performance and manager Roberto Martinez's decisions. "He's waddling around the field like a grandad, that's why Portugal are out," Sutton commented. "Cristiano Ronaldo does nothing; he did nothing. What is Roberto Martinez doing? How can you pander to a player so much?"

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We need to thank him for what he tried to do at this World Cup. His dream was to win this World Cup, he did this with an amazing example. He is a prime example of football and the human being that is behind that athlete.

Martinez, who announced his resignation after the final whistle, praised Ronaldo as a "football icon" and thanked him for his efforts and dedication. However, the team's early exit, despite boasting numerous talented players, including Champions League winners and Premier League standouts like Bruno Fernandes, has led to intense debate about tactics and player selection. Sutton questioned why talents like Goncalo Ramos did not feature more prominently, calling the manager's approach an "absolute embarrassment" due to perceived favoritism towards Ronaldo.

Ronaldo finished the tournament with three goals, but despite numerous shots, his overall contribution was heavily scrutinized. The team's performance in reaching only the last 16 has fueled discussions about whether Portugal could have achieved more with a different strategic approach.

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How did Goncalo Ramos not get on the pitch? It's an absolute embarrassment from the manager, just pandering to his star player.