'Don't have many years left...': Cristiano Ronaldo recognizes age & hints retirement post POR vs IRE

Portugal showed their dominance in a commanding 3-0 victory over Ireland in a friendly match ahead of the UEFA Euro 2024. João Félix opened the scoring in the 18th minute, and Cristiano Ronaldo secured the win with two goals in the 50th and 60th minutes. Portugal exhibited superiority in possession with 69% and showcased their attacking prowess with 20 shots, 9 on target, and 7 corners. Despite Ireland's efforts, they were unable to match Portugal's performance, ultimately succumbing to the Portuguese team's strong display at Estádio Municipal de Aveiro.

Cristiano Ronaldo drops a major hint on his retirement post heroics in the Portugal vs Ireland 

Cristiano Ronaldo has admitted that his time in football is short and offered some thoughts on his future. This summer, Portugal will be captained by the five-time Ballon d'Or winner.

After scoring twice in Portugal's 3-0 friendly win over the Republic of Ireland on Tuesday, June 11, Ronaldo, 39, thought back on his career. In a post-match press meet , Cristiano Ronaldo said: 

"I'm prepared, always in the best way. I'm a 100% professional. This is my life. I dedicate myself to 100%, not 80 or 90. I'm prepared to help the country and the team. And now it's about respecting the decisions. Play, don't play. Those who played gave a good answer. Taking advantage of this generation to do something beautiful in the European Championship.

As I say, talent is not enough for me I don't have many years left in football… so, I have to enjoy it. I'm in love with football. Every game is special, imagine at the Euros with Portugal, you feel proud. 

It's a dream, like when I was 20.". It's a treat every year, playing year after year after 35. I'm 39. Every year is a pleasure. If there are goals, it's my DNA. The most important thing is to dedicate myself. My love for the national team is lifelong.

Trophy? We’re dreaming about it.”

In a friendly game that Portugal won 3-0 over the Republic of Ireland in order to prepare for Euro 2024, Cristiano Ronaldo, the top player for Al-Nassr, gave an amazing performance.

Portugal led firmly after Ronaldo scored twice in the space of ten minutes. With these goals, the Portuguese icon has an amazing 130 international goals.

Ronaldo only needed five minutes to get going in the second half. Precision-controlling a long ball from Ruben Neves, he made room with fast step-overs before launching a strong left-footed shot that flew past goalie Caoimhin Kelleher and into the top corner.

Not long afterward, Ronaldo scored his second goal, a lovely one-touch finish that Diogo Jota had set up with his clever left flank manoeuvring. There were no questions after this performance about whether the 39-year-old should still be spearheading Portugal's attack in Euro 2024.

With his brace, Ronaldo confirmed his place as a key member of the Portugal team which he always does. Having made his international debut in 2003, he has already scored 130 goals in 205 games.

Portugal's spirits were raised going into the competition by this encounter, which also demonstrated Ronaldo's unwavering talent and tenacity.

Cristiano Ronaldo has been in outstanding form at both club and international levels over the last year. The five-time UEFA Champions League winner concluded his 2023-24 season with Al-Nassr with 44 goals and 13 assists in 45 games in all competitions.

The famous forward continues to roll back the years, scoring his 895th career goal in the triumph over Ireland. It was an ideal preparation for Portugal ahead of Euro 2024.

Portugal will now be seen in action against Czechia on June 19, 2024, kicking off their UEFA Euro 2024 in Germany. They are placed in Group F with Turkey, Georgia and Czechia.