Is this the last dance?
Apparently, Cristiano Ronaldo’s sister Katia Aveiro thinks so.
Cristiano Ronaldo came on as a substitute in the match against Croatia. FIFA
The Portuguese great became the oldest outfield player to feature in a World Cup knockout match when Portugal faced Croatia in the last 16 on Friday (AEST).
He also scored from the penalty spot and then reacted angrily when he was substituted as Portugal booked their place in the last 16 with a 2-1 victory, a victory marked by 18 minutes of stoppage time that led to Croatia equalizing, which was eventually ruled offside.
Before Portugal’s match in Toronto, Aveiro told Sport TV: “Enjoy it while it lasts. It will be over soon. The information I have is from a reliable source… this is his last dance.”
“I believe that they will not say goodbye today, but it will happen soon. I firmly believe that this is goodbye.
“So enjoy it because after 200 goals it will be difficult to find anyone. I’m talking about the Portuguese national team.”
Aveiro added: “Smart people, those who love football, should like Ronaldo. They are the ones who lose.”
“He has been dominant for over 20 years. Look where we are, the Aveiro family… and where we come from. Look at the suffering my mother went through…
“Do you think criticism will affect our happiness? Never!”
The 41-year-old was furious when he was substituted with about 10 minutes left in the match with the score at 1-1.
Luckily for Ronaldo, a 94th-minute goal from fellow substitute Gonzalo Ramos ensured his World Cup career would continue for at least one more game.
The lowered star leaves the field. Getty
Perhaps the disappointment stemmed from the fact that he knew this was his last World Cup and that without a captain and top scorer, the team could go into a penalty shootout.
“Could this be the last time we see him at the World Cup wearing a Portugal shirt?” said commentator Tony Husband.
“He scores tonight and leaves the pitch with 10 minutes to play. He leaves an indelible mark on this game and, of course, at some point in the future, a lasting legacy in Portuguese football.”
That legacy will last a little longer as Portugal face Spain in the next round.
Luka Modric and Ronaldo pay their respects after full time. Frank Gunn/The Canadian Press via AP
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner scored three goals at this World Cup, becoming Portugal’s all-time leading scorer.
The goal against Croatia was Ronaldo’s first goal in a World Cup knockout match.
In his eight previous playoff matches, he had missed the net.