Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez hailed Cristiano Ronaldo as an "exemplary captain" and a football icon following his side's Round of 16 elimination from the FIFA World Cup 2026. Martinez also announced his resignation after the match.
Martinez Praises Ronaldo's Leadership
Speaking after the match, as quoted by The Athletic, Martinez said: "He has been an exemplary captain. I got to Portugal at a time when there was a lot of confusion and questions (about him). As far as his position, he has been an example in terms of the goals, but also the averages, the assists he has given in the attacks, counter-attacks."
Martinez emphasized Ronaldo's commitment to football, stating: "The way he commits to football, he is a role model. He is someone to celebrate. We are talking about a football icon. There are not many Cristiano Ronaldos out there. We need to thank him for what he has done this World Cup. He is a prime example of football, an athlete, and the human being that is behind that athlete."
Ronaldo's World Cup Journey Ends
This tournament marked the end of Ronaldo's World Cup career, having debuted in 2006. Portugal achieved fourth place in 2006, followed by a Round of 16 exit in 2010, group stage elimination in 2014, another Round of 16 exit in 2018, and a quarterfinal appearance in 2022. Despite his efforts, the World Cup trophy eluded him.
In the 2026 edition, Ronaldo scored three goals in five matches. However, in his final match, he set an unfortunate record: 17 shots without creating a single chance for teammates, the most by any player in a World Cup match.
Record-Breaking Performances
Despite the disappointment, Ronaldo achieved several milestones. Against Croatia in the Round of 32, he became the first player to feature in a World Cup knockout match at age 41 or older. He also became the oldest goalscorer in World Cup knockout history at 41 years and 147 days, netting his first-ever World Cup knockout goal.
During the group stage, Ronaldo scored a brace in a 5-0 win over Uzbekistan, becoming Portugal's all-time leading World Cup scorer with 10 goals, surpassing Eusebio's record of nine. He also became the first player to score in six different World Cup tournaments, ending a 10-match goalless streak in major competitions.
Portugal's Tournament Performance
Portugal began with a 1-1 draw against DR Congo, followed by a 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan and a 0-0 draw with Colombia. They advanced to the Round of 16, where they were eliminated.
