Portugal: Ronaldo’s 5 defining moments in national team shirt after retirement

Cristiano Ronaldo brought his international career to a close on Thursday, ending more than two decades representing Portugal.

From his 2003 debut to a record 146 goals in 234 appearances, here are five performances that stand out in the Seleção shirt.

2018: A one-man show against Spain

Ronaldo arrived at the 2018 World Cup opener fresh from three consecutive Champions League triumphs with Real Madrid, and he took charge against Spain in Sochi.

He gave Portugal the lead from the penalty spot, then completed a hat-trick—capped by a brilliant late free kick—to earn a dramatic draw.

2025: Still delivering at 40

Just three months after his 40th birthday, Ronaldo helped Portugal reach the Nations League final against Spain in Munich.

He scored the winner against Germany in the semi-final, then equalised against Spain to force extra time. Portugal went on to win on penalties, six years after lifting the same trophy.

2013: Getting the better of Zlatan

Portugal led Sweden 1-0 after the play-off first leg, thanks to their iconic No. 7, and headed to Stockholm for the return. Ronaldo struck first, but Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s double pulled Sweden level in the tie. Ronaldo then sealed Portugal’s place at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil by completing his hat-trick within two minutes.

2016: Tears, then triumph

Portugal reached the Euro 2016 final without winning a group game. Against hosts France in Paris, they were chasing their first major international trophy and trying to erase the pain of losing to Greece at home 12 years earlier.

Ronaldo was forced off injured and in tears after 25 minutes, but he spent the rest of the match on the touchline urging his teammates on. Eder’s extra-time goal delivered relief for Ronaldo and 11 million Portuguese fans.

2026: Toronto turnaround

After an uninspiring group stage, Ronaldo and Portugal met Croatia in the last 32 of the 2026 World Cup in Toronto. Aware that it could be his final World Cup match, Ronaldo took control.

An early effort was ruled out for offside, and Ivan Perisic put Croatia ahead, but Ronaldo equalised from the penalty spot. Goncalo Ramos’ late header secured a memorable 2-1 win and a place in the last 16, where Portugal lost to eventual champions Spain.