A New Chapter in Football History
In a historic moment for football, Cristiano Ronaldo has reached the 900-goal milestone in his glittering career, becoming the first professional player to achieve such a feat. The Portuguese star scored the landmark goal during the UEFA Nations League A match against Croatia on September 6, 2024, helping his team secure a 2-1 victory. The goal was a testament to his enduring talent and relentless drive, even at the age of 39.
A Moment of Reflection and Celebration
Reflecting on his achievement, Ronaldo, who has played for clubs like Real Madrid, Juventus, Manchester United, and now Al Nassr in the Saudi Arabian league, spoke of the hard work and dedication that led to this milestone. This actually isn’t easy, it requires a lot of daily work, perseverance, and full preparation, he said in an interview with Sport TV. I’m over half a year into being 39, and I have to stay fully focused to ensure everything goes well. That’s why I get very excited when these records appear.
Ronaldo, who has often stated that records chase him rather than the other way around, was in high spirits post-match, expressing his enjoyment of the game. I feel more free, different from the European Cup. We’ve made a lot of changes, and I’m better in this situation, more involved in the game, and I enjoy it more, he said.
Record-Breaking Performance
The goal was Ronaldo’s third for the Portuguese national team in 2024, marking him as the first player at the age of 39 to score three goals in a single calendar year for a national team. Additionally, he is the first player to score in 22 consecutive seasons for his national team. His current tally of 131 goals puts him at the top of the Portuguese national team’s all-time scoring list.
Celebrations and Concerns
Celebrations aside, there is a growing concern about Portugal’s dependency on Ronaldo. While his performance remains exceptional, there are questions about his ability to contribute significantly in major tournaments, especially given his age and the limited competition in the Saudi league. Ronaldo’s performance in the 2024 European Cup, where he failed to score, raised eyebrows, and his exclusion from the 2024 Ballon d’Or candidate list for the second consecutive year adds to the疑问.
Coach Martinez, who has consistently shown faith in Ronaldo, praised his contribution, calling him a goal scorer and emphasizing his importance to the team. He’s very smart in the box, and his goals prove that. He’s a player we need to use well, Martinez said.
However, the Portuguese national team faces a dilemma. With the 2026 World Cup in sight, there is divided opinion on whether to continue relying on the aging star. At 41, Ronaldo’s abilities are likely to decline, and the team may struggle to maintain its integrity and strength on the field if he continues to be a central figure.
Future Prospects
Despite the concerns, there is hope that Ronaldo can still contribute positively, perhaps by taking on a more supportive role within the team. His teammates, like Danilo Pereira and Bruno Fernandes, express their support and willingness to see him continue his journey, albeit with different expectations.
In conclusion, whileC罗’s 900th goal is a monumental achievement and a moment of celebration, it also raises valid concerns about the Portuguese national team’s reliance on their star player. As the team looks to the future, they must balance the desire to leverage Ronaldo’s undoubted talent with the need to develop a sustainable strategy for success beyond his playing days.
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