There was a feeling of conclusion when Cristiano Ronaldo departed the Al Thumama Stadium with his head bowed.
The fancied Portugal star had just exited the 2022 World Cup to history-makers Morocco, with captain Ronaldo unable to turn the tide off the bench in the second half. His self-assurance knows no bounds, but even the great Ronaldo may have thought that was that in regard to his World Cup career.
The ultimate prize had eluded him, but Lionel Messi’s subsequent legacy-sealing triumph left no doubt in Ronaldo’s mind. Qatar couldn’t be the culmination. To 2026 he goes, with North America offering the 40-year-old one final shot at completing his CV.
The all-time great is recognized as such because of his capacity to perform on the biggest stage under the brightest lights. However, on the grandest occasion of them all, Ronaldo has somewhat floundered.
Here is an overview of Ronaldo’s World Cup record since his debut in the competition back in 2006.
