March 24, (THEWILL) – Football superstar, Cristiano Ronaldo, has set a new record as the most-capped men’s international footballer of all time, winning his 197th cap in Portugal’s opening Euro 2024 qualifier against Liechtenstein.
The Al Nassr forward has now overtaken Kuwait forward, Bader Al-Mutawa, to become the top scorer in the history of the sport. Ronaldo’s achievement is even more impressive when considering that he had contemplated retiring from international football after Portugal’s defeat to Morocco in the World Cup quarter-finals in December.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner, who earned his first cap in 2003, also holds the record for the most men’s international goals (118). Ronaldo has played against Luxembourg more times than any other nation, followed by Spain, and has scored nine times against Luxembourg, seven times against Lithuania and Sweden respectively.
He has also played 47 times for Portugal at major tournaments, with 25 appearances at the European Championships and 22 at the World Cup. Ronaldo is hopeful of continuing to represent Portugal and playing a key role in their Euro 2024 campaign. This record-breaking achievement is a testament to his exceptional talent and longevity as a footballer.
Despite the setbacks and disappointments he has faced over the years, the forward remains committed to his sport and passionate about representing his country. Ronaldo’s legacy as one of the greatest footballers of all time is secure, and his latest achievement will inspire future generations of footballers to aim high and strive for excellence.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
