Cristiano Ronaldo has done almost everything for football but one giant international obstacle that still loomed was of defeating Germany. That all changed in dramatic fashion as the Portuguese icon became the winner in the Nations League semi-final in Munich finally ending his poor record against the Germans, which stretched back so long.
A Record-Breaking Night For The Ages
The objective not only guaranteed Portugal qualification for the final but also took Ronaldo’s phenomenal international count to 137 goals in 220 games, with a lifetime career count of 937 all of which are men’s football records. Still at the age of 40, he keeps creating new milestones.
A History Of Struggle Against Germany
Prior to this win, Germany was the only national side Ronaldo had never conquered with five consecutive losses throughout his career. Portugal’s previous victory against them had been a long time ago in Euro 2000. With this win, the count now reads one win in six matches, ending the curse at last.
With this monkey off his back, England now has the peculiar distinction of having been the team Ronaldo has played against most without tasting victory — three draws. But two of those encounters were won by Portugal through penalties (Euro 2004 and World Cup 2006), and this rather colors the picture.
A Mixed Record Against Top Nations
While Ronaldo’s consistent nemesis has been Germany, France is the nation who have handed him four international losses in total. But Portugal’s legendary Euro 2016 final victory over France somewhat evened the ledger. They have also experienced three draws, one of which was a shootout defeat.
From Scoring Drought To Impact Player
Ronaldo’s record against Germany was disappointing one goal in 450 minutes prior to this game. Now, two in 540 minutes, which averages out at one every 270 minutes. In a twist of fate, it’s German clubs he has gorged on in European competition, with a stunning 28 goals in 26 Champions League matches.
Since reaching age 30, Ronaldo has netted 85 goals for Portugal more than the total international scores of numerous football greats, including Puskás, Pelé, Maradona, Gerd Müller, and even current stars Neymar and Harry Kane.
What’s Coming Next For The Football Legend?
Ronaldo will feature in the Nations League final against France or Spain, who collide in Stuttgart. But as for his club career, doubts exist. He has been at Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr for the last two and a half years, but with his deal running out this summer, rumors are swirling. A mysterious social media message after the season finale stated:
“This chapter is over. The story? Still being written. Grateful to all.”
This led to speculation that he might be leaving. There were even reports from FIFA President Gianni Infantino that Ronaldo could sign with a club specifically for the Club World Cup, even though Al-Nassr is not competing. Clubs such as Brazil’s Botafogo have been mentioned, but latest reports now indicate that Ronaldo is inclined towards extending his contract with Al-Nassr, possibly playing until he is 42 years old.
Is The 1,000-Goal Mark In Sight?
With 937 goals in his career, Ronaldo simply needs to score another 63 to reach the legendary 1,000-goal barrier a mark no player has technically achieved. Although Pele and Romario said they crossed 1,000, their figures comprised unofficial friendly matches. If Ronaldo continues to perform having managed 35 goals last season he could feasibly do this in under two years. If anyone is going to do it, though, it’s him.
