Ronaldo targets record 234th Portugal cap after retirement doubts
Cristiano Ronaldo has decided to continue with Portugal after admitting that he considered ending his international career in the aftermath of the World Cup. The forward, who turned 42 in February, will target a landmark 234th appearance for his country when Portugal face Wales in Lisbon on Thursday.
World Cup setback prompted Ronaldo review
Portugal’s summer ended with a narrow last-16 defeat to Spain, a result that led Ronaldo to assess whether his record-breaking international career should continue. He confirmed that retirement had been a real option, explaining that he regularly reflects on both his immediate situation and longer-term future.
His decision to remain available means Portugal will retain their most experienced forward as the squad continues to introduce younger players. Ronaldo believes he can still offer an important contribution, primarily through goals and victories on the pitch, while also providing support around the group.
The sequence from tournament exit to Wales
- Portugal were eliminated by Spain in the World Cup last 16 after a close defeat.
- Ronaldo considered whether that disappointment should bring his international career to an end.
- The veteran chose to continue, saying his presence reflects his belief that he can still help the side.
- He is now in line to win his 234th Portugal cap against Wales in Lisbon on Thursday.
Contribution remains Ronaldo’s condition
Ronaldo made clear that he does not intend to stay in the squad simply because of his history. He said he would leave immediately if he felt he was no longer improving the team or was creating a negative environment.
The forward pointed to his continuing output as evidence that he remains capable of serving Portugal. He also stressed that, whenever the national setup no longer wants him, he would step aside without dispute and remain a committed supporter of the federation.
Aiming for 1,000 career goals
Beyond the next international fixture, Ronaldo has set his sights on reaching 1,000 senior goals across his club and Portugal career before retirement. It is an unprecedented target and underlines why he has chosen to extend his international run despite having weighed up an exit following the World Cup.
- Ronaldo has opted to continue playing for Portugal after considering international retirement.
- The World Cup loss to Spain was the key moment behind his reassessment.
- He believes he can still score goals, help Portugal win matches and assist a younger generation within the squad.
- Portugal’s match against Wales in Lisbon could bring his 234th international appearance.
- His wider personal objective is to reach 1,000 career goals before he stops playing.
