HAMBURG, Germany: Cristiano Ronaldo, a stalwart of Portuguese football for nearly two decades, faces a daunting task in Euro 2024 as he confronts France in the quarter-finals.
At 39 years old and now playing his club football in Saudi Arabia, Ronaldo’s performance in what could be his last major international tournament reflects the twilight of his illustrious career.
Renowned for his prolific scoring abilities, Ronaldo has yet to find the net in Germany, showcasing a decline in form that contrasts sharply with his past dominance on the field. Despite starting in all four matches, his contributions have been limited, highlighted by a missed penalty against Slovenia that nearly jeopardized Portugal’s progression.
Coach Roberto Martinez praised Ronaldo’s leadership and resilience after the penalty ordeal, emphasizing his role in fostering team unity. However, it’s evident that Ronaldo’s impact on Portugal’s attacking prowess has diminished significantly, with sporadic displays failing to match his historical standards.
Reflecting on his emotional journey in the tournament, Ronaldo expressed a mix of sadness and joy, acknowledging the unpredictable nature of football. Despite his legendary status as the top scorer in European Championship history with 14 goals and multiple records, Ronaldo’s ability to influence matches against formidable opponents like France remains uncertain.
Facing a resilient French defence that shut down top-tier talents like Romelu Lukaku and Jeremy Doku in their previous match, Ronaldo and Portugal must elevate their performance to progress further. With France yet to concede a goal in open play, Ronaldo’s prospects hinge on rediscovering his synergy with teammates to avoid a premature exit from Euro 2024.
As Ronaldo navigates the final chapters of his international career, his quest for glory underscores the challenges of maintaining peak performance at an advanced age. While his legacy remains secure, the reality of facing younger, dynamic opponents like France highlights the inevitability of transition in football’s elite ranks.
