Ronaldo score winner in record 200th game for Portugal
Cristiano Ronaldo marked his 200th international appearance with the winner as Portugal beat Iceland 1-0 in Euro 2024 qualifying on Tuesday, while Erling Haaland netted twice for Norway.
Portugal appeared to be heading towards a drab goalless draw in Reykjavik until Willum Thor Willumsson was sent off late on.
Ronaldo struggled for much of the match but repaid coach Roberto Martinez’s faith by slotting home from Goncalo Inacio’s knock-down in the 89th minute.
It was a nice script (for Ronaldo). There was incredible celebration, the first men’s player ever in world football to get 200 international games, said Martinez.
The former Real Madrid and Manchester United star’s record-extending 123rd international goal was initially ruled out for offside before being awarded by VAR.
“For me it’s an unbelievable achievement, it’s amazing,” said the 38-year-old Ronaldo. “And ofcourse to score the winning goal, it’s even more special.”
Marking his 200th cap, the Portugal team’s official Twitter account featured the message, ‘How it started. How it’s going, above a picture of a young Ronaldo playing in an early appearance for Portugal alongside a photo of “Jubilant Ronaldo” during Tuesday’s game.
Ronaldo also padded his “record for international goals” in Tuesday by netting his 123rd for Portugal- making it another memorable night for the former Real Madrid and Manchester United star.
Ronaldo said he was “very proud” to complete 200 games for Portugal.
Sources & Courtesy: CGTN