Cristiano Ronaldo suffered one of the most heartbreaking moments in his career last night. Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal suffered a shock defeat to Morocco in the quarterfinals of the FIFA World Cup 2022. This defeat could see Cristiano Ronaldo taking retirement from football all together after a glittering career of almost two decades.
This World Cup was supposed to be the last one for Cristiano Ronaldo. The 37-year-old failed to inspire his team to a victory after Morocco took the lead from Youssef En-Nesyri’s towering first-half goal. Ronaldo came off the bench in the second half, but could not affect the result of the game. This match could also lead to the retirement of Portugal coach Fernando Santos. Santos, who joined as a coach in 2014, has won the Euros and the UEFA Nations League with Portugal.
It was a tough match for Portugal, who despite their repeated efforts, could not get past Moroccan keeper Yassine Bounou. Joao Felix came close twice to score for Portugal. However, Bounou’s heroics secured a historic night for the Moroccans. Morocco became the first African team to book their slot in the semifinals of the FIFA World Cup.
It was a jubilant night for Morocco who will play in the semifinals of the World Cup for the first time in their history. Morocco will face defending champions France in the semifinals of the FIFA World Cup 2022. It will be a great treat for soccer fans to watch the devastating attack of France against the stout defense of Morocco.
Cristiano Ronaldo got emotional after Portugal’s exit from World Cup
Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup dreams ended in tears as Portugal’s hopes of winning the World Cup were shattered by Morocco. This was surely Ronaldo’s final appearance in a World Cup match, as the Portuguese talisman would be aged 41 during the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Cristiano Ronaldo started the match on the bench after Goncalo Ramos’s stunning performance against Switzerland earned the Benfica forward a place in the starting XI ahead of Ronaldo. The former Manchester United star came on in the 51st minute but barely had an impact on the game. Ronaldo’s only effort on goal came in the 91st minute, which Bounou saved rather easily.
Very sad to see @Cristiano in tears as his dream of winning the World Cup ended. Those mocking him should remember what he’s done for football. For me, he’s the 🐐- and a great guy who’s had the toughest year of his life on & off the pitch. He’s earned our respect. pic.twitter.com/CCH8ggHkTv
— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) December 10, 2022
Although Ronaldo has won the Euros in 2016 with Portugal, he was left disappointed yet again in the World Cup. It was painful for the soccer fans to see Cristiano Ronaldo crying after the final whistle. The cameras captured Ronaldo crying inconsolably while heading toward the dressing room after the match.
What’s next for Cristiano Ronaldo?
After Portugal’s World Cup exit, soccer fans are speculating whether they will see Cristiano Ronaldo on a football pitch again. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner may retire from football after losing to Morocco in the World Cup.
The Portuguese skipper is already without a club, as Manchester United terminated his contract last month. Although Ronaldo has repeatedly expressed his desire to retire at the top level of football, no European clubs have approached to sign Ronaldo yet. Albeit there was a mega 200 million dollar deal presented by Saudi club Al-Nassr which Ronaldo rejected.
Although there is no official statement by Cristiano Ronaldo on his future yet. However, it might be possible that we have seen the very last of Cristiano Ronaldo last night.