Cristiano Ronaldo to Determine International Future After World Cup 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo has stated that he will make a decision regarding his international future only after the FIFA World Cup 2026 concludes. Following Portugal's dramatic 2-1 victory over Croatia, where Ronaldo became the oldest player to score in a World Cup knockout match, he emphasized his focus on the tournament. Portugal's comeback victory, highlighted by a stoppage-time winner from Goncalo Ramos, sets the stage for a Round of 16 clash against Spain. This match also marked a significant moment for Luka Modric, potentially ending his World Cup journey.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 3, 2026, 10:25 IST

Ronaldo's Future to be Decided After World Cup

Cristiano Ronaldo, the captain of Portugal, has announced that he will make a decision regarding his international career only after the FIFA World Cup 2026 concludes. This statement comes in light of rumors surrounding his potential retirement following Portugal's recent win against Croatia, as reported by various sports outlets.

After Portugal's exciting 2-1 victory over Croatia in the Round of 32, Ronaldo emphasized his commitment to the tournament, stating that any decisions about his future will be postponed until Portugal's journey in the competition is over.

"I avoid making hasty choices," Ronaldo remarked after the match, reinforcing his intention to wait until the tournament's conclusion before making any announcements about his future.

Historic Goal in Knockout Stage

In this match, Ronaldo made history by becoming the oldest player to score in a FIFA World Cup knockout game. At 41 years and 147 days old, he surpassed the previous record for the oldest goalscorer in this stage of the tournament. This goal also marked Ronaldo's first in knockout matches during his sixth World Cup appearance.

He netted the equalizer from the penalty spot in the 67th minute after a VAR review confirmed a foul, leveling the score after Ivan Perisic had initially put Croatia ahead. Ronaldo's outstanding performance earned him the Player of the Match title.

Portugal's Thrilling Comeback Victory

Portugal achieved a thrilling 2-1 comeback win against Croatia in the Round of 32 of the FIFA World Cup 2026, with substitute Goncalo Ramos scoring a dramatic winner in stoppage time, propelling Portugal into the Round of 16.

Croatia initially took the lead with Ivan Perisic's goal, making him the all-time leading World Cup scorer for his country. However, Ronaldo's penalty brought Portugal back into the game. Croatia had two goals disallowed for offside, including a late equalizer that would have sent the match into extra time, as Portugal advanced to face Spain in the next round. This match also marked a poignant moment for Luka Modric, potentially concluding his World Cup career.