SOCHI, Russia (AFP) – Cristiano Ronaldo noticed his World Cup dreams slip away once again on Saturday (June 30) however gave no trace as to whether he plans to proceed taking part in for Portugal.
The reigning European champions had been undone by two Edinson Cavani goals for Uruguay of their last-16 tie in Sochi, regardless of Pepe bringing them stage at one level early within the second half.
It was not to be Ronaldo’s evening, as he exited the World Cup on the identical day as Lionel Messi’s Argentina were eradicated following a 4-Three defeat at the hands of France.
Ronaldo can be almost 38 by the time the next World Cup comes round in Qatar in 2022.
“Now will not be the time to speak in regards to the future, both of the coach or the gamers,” the Portugal skipper mentioned after the game.
The 33-year-old did nonetheless say that the European champions may look to the future with confidence.
“I’m positive that Portugal will continue to be one of the best groups in the world. We have a young and impressive squad,” he mentioned.
Remarkably, neither Ronaldo nor Messi have managed to attain a single purpose in a knockout tie in 4 World Cups going again to 2006.
Ronaldo reached the semi-finals with Portugal in his first World Cup in Germany, however has by no means made it previous the final 16 since then.
This has been his finest World Cup by way of targets scored, as he leaves with 4 in whole, together with a hat-trick in a 3-Three draw with Spain within the group stage.
His tally is one behind the event’s present main scorer Harry Kane, with Ronaldo also missing a penalty within the 1-1 draw with Iran.
“He’s an distinctive participant,” mentioned Uruguay’s veteran coach Oscar Tabarez. “He’s their chief, their captain. It’s worthwhile to actually focus to ensure he is not successful towards you, however that could be very troublesome.”
Portugal coach Fernando Santos was hopeful that the Actual Madrid man will proceed to symbolize his nation for a while but, with Portugal’s next challenge to defend the European Championship title they received in France two years ago.
“I’m positive he’ll. Cristiano nonetheless has rather a lot to provide to the sport,” Santos mentioned when requested if he felt his captain would keep on representing his nation.
Portugal will take part within the inaugural Uefa Nations League later this year, beginning towards Italy in September.
By that point, Ronaldo’s situation at club stage will be clearer after he raised doubts about his future with Actual Madrid within the wake of their Champions League last win towards Liverpool in Could.
“There is one other event beginning in September and naturally we hope Cristiano will be with us to help the youthful gamers grow,” Santos mentioned. “We have many younger players and it is important to have our captain there.”
