Cristiano Ronaldo made history by scoring his 900th career goal, but it was his words that sparked a stir.
The 39-year-old icon claimed Portugal’s Euro 2016 triumph is “equivalent” to winning a World Cup, a subtle jab at his long-time rival, Lionel Messi.
Ronaldo reached the milestone in Portugal’s 2-1 Nations League win over Croatia, a night that saw his former Manchester United teammate, Diogo Dalot, score and concede an own goal.
Ronaldo’s emotional celebration showed the significance of the moment, but his post-match comments revealed a shift in focus.
Enjoying football is now Ronaldo’s sole motivation, rather than winning the World Cup.
With 131 goals for Portugal and 769 at club level, Ronaldo’s achievements are unparalleled.
However, Messi’s World Cup win with Argentina in 2022 remains a difference between the two.
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CR7 Said:
‘Portugal winning Euros is equivalent to winning a World Cup.’
‘I’ve already won two trophies for Portugal that I really wanted. I’m not motivated by that.
‘I’m motivated by enjoying football and the records come naturally.’
‘Scoring 900 goals seems like any other milestone, but only I know how hard it is to work every day to score your 900th goal.
‘It’s a unique milestone in my career.
‘I don’t break records… they haunt me!’
Ronaldo’s message to Messi was clear: individual accolades matter, but team success is just as valuable.
As Ronaldo looks to maintain Portugal’s 100% record in the Nations League, the debate about his and Messi’s legacies will only intensify.
The question remains: can Ronaldo lead Portugal to World Cup glory, or will his Euro 2016 triumph remain his crowning achievement?
One thing is certain – the rivalry between Ronaldo and Messi continues to captivate the football world.
