Lead
Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo has played his final World Cup match after Spain secured a 1-0 victory in their round-of-16 encounter on Monday. Mikel Merino broke the deadlock in stoppage time, ending the Portuguese captain's participation in the tournament.
Ronaldo, 41, confirmed that the match was his last in the World Cup, a sentiment he expressed in a mixed-zone interview after the game.
Coverage Comparison
Reports from Al Jazeera and France 24 — English both confirm the score and the significance of the result. France 24 — English highlighted that Ronaldo, after the match, confirmed his retirement from international football. Al Jazeera's reports focused on his uncertain future and the emotions of the moment, noting that he fought back tears as he left the pitch.
The goal that sealed the victory came from substitute Mikel Merino, who scored in the dying moments of the match. Spain will face Belgium in the next round, after Belgium defeated the United States 4-1.
Key Claims
Mikel Merino broke the deadlock in injury time, and Spain won 1-0 against Portugal. Portugal's exit means Ronaldo played his final game at the World Cup. Ronaldo confirmed his farewell, as reported by Al Jazeera. He is the only player to have scored in six different World Cups, a record established with his two goals against Uzbekistan in the group stage, as reported by Al Jazeera.
Spain will face Belgium next, as noted by France 24 — English.
Ronaldo has not yet decided whether he will continue with the national team, as reported by Al Jazeera. Portugal has appointed Jorge Jesus as new coach, and Jesus said he would call on Ronaldo if he is available, as reported by Al Jazeera.
Perspectives
Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo: Ronaldo said he was "sad to be leaving the World Cup like this," adding that he gave his all and left with a clear conscience. He acknowledged the match was his last World Cup appearance but indicated he would take time to reflect on his international future, saying he would not make any rash decisions.
Portugal coach Jorge Jesus: "As long as he's playing and is in a condition to be selected, I will pick him, within certain limits and under the conditions that I consider best for the national team," Jesus said. He added that he has not yet spoken to Ronaldo but expects to discuss the forward's future.