Leader Ronaldo

Ronaldo plays an important role in the Portuguese national team. Photo: Reuters .

Since making his debut for the national team in 2003, Ronaldo has become an icon of "European Brazil". After 22 years of playing, CR7 continues to be trusted and given the responsibility of leading the Portuguese national team's attack in two matches against Denmark in the Nations League.

Ronaldo is not the oldest player to play for Portugal. That record belongs to Pepe (41 years and 4 months). However, with his endurance and impressive physical foundation, the former Real Madrid and MU star can surpass his close friend in the future.

Explaining the decision to call Ronaldo, coach Roberto Martinez said: "When calling a player like Ronaldo, I consider three criteria. His talent is undeniable, one of the best players in history. Ronaldo's experience is also very valuable. But the most outstanding thing is his dedication. Ronaldo's desire to play for Portugal is what motivates the whole team."

In the Nations League, Ronaldo is still in the race for the top scorer with 5 goals, 4 goals behind the leader Viktor Gyokeres. No Portuguese player is in better form than CR7 at the moment.

Ronaldo still scores regularly for the national team. Photo: Reuters.

In the current training session, Ronaldo will be playing alongside familiar teammates such as Bruno Fernandes, Rafael Leao, Diogo Dalot and Bernardo Silva. Notably, the midfield duo Joao Neves and Vitinha, who are in very good form at PSG, will be the factors that promise to help CR7 in the upcoming matches.

The biggest goal for the Portuguese team and Ronaldo personally is to win the World Cup. Coach Martinez added: "It's not a question of pressure, but of having the courage to overcome challenges to realise our ambitions. We want to find a balance between immediate success and building a project towards the future."

Coach Martinez's team will also begin the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign in September. Ronaldo is expected to continue to play an important role in the squad.

5 veterans still playing impressively Although no longer at their peak, veterans like Ronaldo, Messi, Modric, Dzeko and Ramos still shine brightly in their club colors.

Source: https://znews.vn/thu-linh-ronaldo-post1538996.html