Mother's heartfelt video message for Ronaldo
Portuguese football icon Cristiano Ronaldo received an emotional message from his mother Maria ahead of Portugal's final FIFA World Cup group stage match against Colombia. In a video posted by the official FIFA handle, Maria praised her son's historic achievements and thanked fans for their support.
"Good afternoon. I am proud that my son continues to make history. I want to thank all the fans that have been by your side. You have given so much to the world. A kiss to you, my son. Your mother is always here for you," Maria said in the video.
She added: "I want to thank everyone for the respect you have shown my son. I send kisses to Portugal and all the Portuguese fans! I hope football continues to bring people together. Go, Portugal! Kisses."
Portugal's World Cup campaign so far
Portugal currently sits second in their group with four points from a win and a draw. They face group leaders Colombia, who have won both their matches. A dominant win would secure Portugal's spot in the round of 32. Ronaldo, who scored a brace against Uzbekistan in Portugal's last match, aims to add more goals to his Golden Boot tally.
Against Uzbekistan, Ronaldo scored twice, while Nuno Mendes and Rafael Leao also found the net. An own goal by Uzbekistan goalkeeper Abduvohid Nematov further sealed Portugal's emphatic victory, their first win of the tournament.
Ronaldo's record-breaking feats
The brace against Uzbekistan made Ronaldo Portugal's all-time leading scorer in World Cup history with 10 goals, surpassing Eusebio's record of nine. Eusebio, a Portuguese legend and 1965 Ballon d'Or winner, led Portugal to third place at the 1966 World Cup. Pauleta ranks third on Portugal's World Cup scoring list with four goals.
Ronaldo also became the first player to score in six different FIFA World Cup tournaments, ending his 10-match goalless streak across major competitions (World Cup and European Championship).
Special golden boots tribute
According to ESPNFC, Nike honored Ronaldo's record with a special golden-colored 'Gold Scorpion' Mercurial Superfly 11 shoe, featuring his iconic 'CR7' monogram in white. Ronaldo was spotted training in these shoes ahead of the Colombia clash.
Portugal's opening group match ended in a 1-1 draw against DR Congo, putting the team under scrutiny. However, the dominant win against Uzbekistan boosted their goal difference and got their campaign back on track.
