The stage was set for Cristiano Ronaldo to make history this Saturday, 10 December 2022, in Portugal’s all-important World Cup match against Morocco. After an impressive run that saw them reach the semi-finals of the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup, Portugal was the favorite to take home the tournament trophy. Unfortunately, their dreams were crushed as they lost 1-0 to Morocco and failed to advance to the finals.
As soon as the last whistle blew, Ronaldo hurried off the pitch and into the locker room, where he promptly broke down into tears.
With his sixth World Cup appearance, CR7 tied the record held by Egypt’s Bader Al-Mutawa for most international appearances with 196.
The footballing world bid goodbye to superstar Cristiano Ronaldo after Portugal’s elimination from the FIFA World Cup at the hands of Morocco. The heartbreaking moment for Portuguese fans saw Ronaldo leave the pitch in tears, despite a valiant effort that had his team pushing right up until the end of extra time.
Video of Cristiano Ronaldo posted by FIFA:
However, despite their loss, FIFA gave Ronaldo a hero’s farewell for his contribution to the competition.
Over on Twitter, FIFA posted a tribute video to CR7 that recapped some of his most memorable moments from the World Cup.
“A myth. A legend. A machine. Thank you, Cristiano, FIFA wrote.
The Portuguese captain received a standing ovation from fans at the stadium as he made his way off the field following what was undoubtedly one of his most memorable matches in an illustrious career that began when he first took up football at age 8.
More so than the Portuguese national team, FIFA accorded Ronaldo a hero’s goodbye.
Ronaldo’s wife, Georgina, said he should have been given more than a bench spot in his final World Cup.
The crowd continued to roar in appreciation of their hero, further honoring him with an emotional salute as FIFA officials presented him with a crest commemorating his career achievements. An air of sadness enveloped the stadium as everyone celebrated his incredible internationally-renowned feat, which included four Champions League titles and five Ballon D’or awards.
