Ronaldo acknowledges last World Cup, vows to beat Spain

Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the 2026 World Cup will be his last, while expressing confidence that Portugal can overcome Spain in their round-of-16 clash. The 41-year-old captain spoke in a press conference in Dallas, blending nostalgia with defiance.

Last World Cup

After initially dodging the question, Ronaldo admitted, "Claro que va a ser mi último Mundial" Source: lavanguardia. He added, "ojalá que no sea mañana mi último partido, así me podéis seguir intentando matar un poco más" Source: infobae.

On Spain and the match

Ronaldo acknowledged Spain as favorites due to their history, but expressed a positive feeling. He said, "España siempre es candidata a ganarlo todo" Source: lavanguardia and "mañana son favoritos porque ya ganaron esta competición" Source: infobae. However, he countered, "tengo sensación que vamos a ganar" Source: infobae. He also noted his good record against Spain.

Advice to Lamine Yamal and handling criticism

Ronaldo praised Yamal's future but emphasized seeing Spain as a team, not just individuals Source: infobae. He advised Yamal to focus on supportive people and ignore destructive criticism: "Si lo que quiere es tener una carrera larga lo primero que debe hacer es acostumbrarse a las críticas" Source: lavanguardia. Reflecting on his own career, Ronaldo stated, "Llevan 23 años intentando matarme y no lo han conseguido" , dismissing attempts to undermine him.