Following on from Cristiano Ronaldo’s rather explosive departure from Manchester United, after much media speculation, he finally completed his big money move to Saudi Arabia side, Al-Nassr.
Since making the switch out to the country, Ronaldo has in many ways never had such a low media profile in England and Europe given his natural talent, and the incredibly successful career he has forged out for himself, but whilst he is now no longer a regular on the sports back pages, he is quite capable of continuing to make a headline or two and he did just that whilst on international duty for Portugal this week.
The 38 year old former Real Madrid serial winning legend played all 90 minutes of their European Championship Group J qualifier with Iceland, and although it was not an easy game, Ronaldo’s last minute winner saw them take all the points on offer and it was the perfect way for him to cap his latest professional achievement.
The game saw him make history as he became the first player to earn 200 international caps for their country as he had already surpassed the former record holder, Kuwait’s Bader Al-Mutawa, back in March when he broke through his 196 cap record. This was recognised ahead of kick off as he received a Guinness World Records certificate to mark the occasion.
The achievement will have been made even sweeter by his goal as it was his 123rd for his country, which simply extends his existing world record on that front – even if there was some confusion as the goal was initially ruled out for an offside, before it was awarded by the Video Assistant Referee.
Speaking about his latest achievement following the full time whistle, a delighted Ronaldo explained.
“For me it’s an unbelievable achievement, it’s amazing. And, of course to score the winning goal, it’s even more special. We didn’t play so well but sometimes football is like that but we scored a goal and, in my opinion, we deserved it. I’m so happy because of 200 caps, but this is even more special.”
The goal was his fifth of the tournament so far, and Portugal now have four wins from four.