NEW DELHI: Soccer legend Cristiano Ronaldo has hinted at potential retirement plans, saying he would possibly step away from soccer in “a 12 months or two” however stays undecided.
Talking after Portugal’s emphatic 5-1 victory over Poland within the UEFA Nations League on Friday, Ronaldo shared, “I simply need to benefit from the sport. My plan for retirement? If it occurs, it will likely be in a 12 months or two… However I don’t know. I’ll be 40 quickly, and I need to get pleasure from this second whereas I nonetheless really feel motivated. As quickly because the motivation is gone, I’ll stroll away.”
The enduring ahead, who turns 40 in February subsequent 12 months, delivered a masterclass in Porto, scoring twice to safe Portugal’s place within the quarterfinals.
Ronaldo’s efficiency flourished as soon as once more within the nationwide colors, as he netted his 134th worldwide objective with a penalty and later added a spectacular overhead kick to carry his tally to 135.
Portugal took time to interrupt by Poland’s defence, however a second-half flurry sealed the win.
Rafael Leão opened the scoring with a well-placed header, adopted by Ronaldo’s composed penalty.
Bruno Fernandes then unleashed a surprising long-range strike earlier than Ronaldo arrange Pedro Neto for the fourth objective.
Ronaldo’s acrobatic end within the ultimate minutes added an exclamation level to the night time.
Though Poland’s Dominik Marczuk scored a comfort objective, the defeat ended Poland’s quarterfinal hopes.
For Portugal, the consequence ensured not solely a spot within the final eight but additionally placement in Pot 1 for the 2026 World Cup qualifying draw.
As Ronaldo contemplates his footballing future, his efficiency towards Poland reaffirms his standing as a residing legend. Whether or not he retires quickly or extends his illustrious profession, Ronaldo’s affect on the sport stays indelible.
