On his historic 200th international outing, Cristiano Ronaldo scored a last-minute winner to lift Portugal to a 1-0 victory in Iceland, maintaining Portugal’s unblemished record in the Euro 2024 qualifying round. Early on, the visitors controlled possession but were unable to establish any sort of attacking rhythm.
After 17 minutes, Pepe had Portugal’s first genuine opportunity when he rose highest to power a header on goal, but Alex Runarsson was there to tip it for a corner.
At the start of the second half, Portugal attempted to increase the pressure. Martinez’s team moved the ball faster and with greater purpose as they sought to put the Icelandic defence under strain.
Twenty minutes from time, Ronaldo had a golden opportunity, but Sverrir Ingi Ingason did just enough to prevent it. Ingason was there to make a challenge as Ronaldo fired after Goncalo Inacio floated a good pass over the top into his path.
Ten guys remained for Iceland after Willum Willumsson received a second yellow card following a tough challenge ten minutes adtee the start of the second half of the game. Goncalo Inacio cleverly headed the ball into Ronaldo’s path, setting him up for the game-winning goal and his 123rd goal for his nation. Portugal won its fourth straight match in Group J when the goal, which was initially flagged for offside, was ultimately awarded.
And by virtue of his appearance in that match, Ronaldo set another record by becoming the first-ever player in men’s senior football history to make 200 appearances for his country.
Since he made his debut for the national team two decades ago, the former Real Madrid player has scored more frequently than ever, surpassing Ali Daei, who scored 109 goals for Iran between 1993 and 2006, with 122 goals in 199 appearances to become the all-time leading scorer in men’s international competition.
Meanwhile, the mercurial player has insisted he is not hanging his boots anytime soon.
Ronaldo has said: “I’ll stay here until I, the [football federation] president, and the coach believe I can. I’ll never give up coming here, because it’s always a dream. Representing the national team is the height of the career. I want to keep playing and make my family, friends, and Portuguese happy.
“Do I hope to do more? Obviously, that’s why I’m here. That’s why I keep on walking. Living the moment, day by day, seeing my form. I think I’m still doing well, helping, scoring goals, and giving good performances. As long as I’m motivated and those around me like my presence and leadership, I will not give up the national team in any way. As [former Portuguese defender] Bruno Alves said, ‘I will not give away my place for free.’ It’s been a long journey, but it won’t end soon, I hope.”
