Full TimePosted at 90’+5′ Second Half ends, Iceland 0, Portugal 1.Post updateAttempt saved. Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal) right footed shot from the centre of the box is saved in the bottom right corner. Assisted by Gonçalo Inácio.Posted at 90’+4′ Attempt blocked. Gonçalo Inácio (Portugal) right footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked.Posted at 90’+3′ Substitution, Portugal. Diogo Jota replaces Bernardo Silva.Posted at 90’+2′ Corner, Portugal. Conceded by Runar Alex Runarsson.Posted at 90’+2′ Attempt blocked. Gonçalo Inácio (Portugal) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Cristiano Ronaldo.
Cristiano Ronaldo Becomes First Men’s Player to Reach 200 International Caps
On a historic night, Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo became the first men’s player to reach 200 international caps as his team won 1-0 over Iceland in their Euro 2024 qualifying match. Ronaldo scored the winning goal in the last minute of the game, turning home Goncalo Inacio’s header from close range.
The goal was initially ruled out for an Inacio offside but was awarded by the video assistant referee. This was Ronaldo’s 123rd international goal, extending his world record. Before kick-off, Ronaldo was given a certificate by Guinness World Records to mark this latest landmark.
Ronaldo is in his 20th year of playing for Portugal, having made his international debut in 2003, and is still a regular in the team despite leaving Europe for Saudi Arabia after the World Cup. The former Sporting Lisbon, Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus forward has won the Ballon d’Or five times.
His fifth goal of Euro 2024 qualifying helped take Portugal on to four wins from four games. Iceland, who have only won once, had Willum Willumsson sent off for two bookings with 10 minutes to go.
Ronaldo’s Historic Achievement
Ronaldo expressed his joy after the match, saying “For me it’s an unbelievable achievement, it’s amazing. And, of course to score the winning goal, it’s even more special.” He added that “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 38-year-old has been a consistent presence in the Portugal team for two decades and has become a symbol of excellence and determination for football fans around the world. His record-breaking achievement is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport.
Conclusion
Cristiano Ronaldo’s 200th international cap is an incredible milestone and one that will be remembered for many years to come. His commitment to the sport and his country is an inspiration to all football fans and players alike. He has set a benchmark for excellence that will be hard to surpass in years to come.