After Portugal’s heartbreaking exit from Euro 2024 at the hands of France, coach Roberto Martínez hesitated to confirm whether Cristiano Ronaldo had played his final game for his country. The 39-year-old star, who missed a crucial chance in extra time and later converted a penalty kick, has had an illustrious career, scoring 130 goals in his 212 appearances for Portugal.
Ronaldo’s struggles in the tournament were evident, as he failed to score from open play and endured a goal drought of nine games for his national team. This disappointing performance marked a stark contrast to his usual high standards and left fans and teammates feeling the pain of their elimination from a major competition.
Despite the emotional defeat, defender Pepe revealed the deep disappointment felt by the team and emphasized the frustration of falling short in such a prestigious tournament. The tears shed by players like Pepe and the supportive embrace from Ronaldo showcased the strong bonds and camaraderie within the squad, even in the face of defeat.
As speculation swirls about Ronaldo’s future and potential retirement from international football, the team remains focused on reflecting and regrouping after their Euro 2024 campaign. While the outcome may not have been what they hoped for, the experience and memories shared as a team will undoubtedly shape their journey moving forward.
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