Cristiano Ronaldo, the star striker and captain of Portugal, is set to make his 200th international appearance for his country in a Euro 2024 qualifying match against Iceland on Tuesday. The 38-year-old football icon, who currently plays for Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, will achieve this feat as the most capped and highest scoring player in men’s international football history.
Cristiano Ronaldo made his debut for Portugal in 2003 at the age of 18 and has since become one of the greatest players of all time. He has won five Ballon d’Or awards, four European Golden Shoes, seven league titles, five Champions League trophies, and two international titles with Portugal: Euro 2016 and the 2019 Nations League.
Ronaldo has also broken several records in his illustrious career, including becoming the all-time men’s record international scorer with 122 goals in 199 appearances. He surpassed the previous record of 109 goals held by Iran’s Ali Daei in June 2021 when he scored twice against France at Euro 2020.
Ronaldo has also set a new men’s international record when he won his 197th cap against Liechtenstein in March 2021. He surpassed the previous record of 195 caps held by Egypt’s Ahmed Hassan.
Ronaldo is now on the verge of reaching another remarkable milestone: 200 international appearances for Portugal. He will become the first male player to achieve this feat and only the second player overall after Canada’s Christine Sinclair, who has made 209 appearances for her country.
Ronaldo expressed his anticipation and gratitude for reaching this significant milestone during a press conference in Reykjavik, saying, “I will never give up coming here (to the Portugal team) because it’s always a dream. Reaching 200 international matches isn’t for just anyone; it shows the love I have for my country and our team.
He also said that he would love to crown his 200th international game with a goal, but added that he was not chasing records, but rather they were chasing him. He was happy because it was part of his motivation to continue at the highest level with the team.
Portugal coach Roberto Martinez acknowledged the significance of Ronaldo’s achievement, emphasising that Cristiano Ronaldo 200th international appearance was a unique and proud moment for Portuguese football. He said that Ronaldo was an example of professionalism, dedication, and passion for the game.
Martinez also confirmed, “Ronaldo will start the game against Iceland, and we expect Portugal to comfortably win.” Portugal are already dominating their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign, sitting comfortably at the top of Group J with three consecutive wins and an impressive goal tally of 13 without conceding.
The match against Iceland will be a celebratory occasion for both Ronaldo and the team, as they aim to secure their place at next year’s Euro in Germany. As Ronaldo’s remarkable journey nears this remarkable milestone, he reflects on his achievements with gratitude and humility. He also remains motivated to continue breaking records and performing at the highest level for his national team.
