Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed his retirement plan after Portugal defeated Slovenia in Euro penalty shoot-out to qualify for the quarter-finals.
The former Real Madrid star broke down in tears after seeing Slovenia goalkeeper Jan Oblak save his spot-kick in extra-time – before scoring his second effort in a triumphant penalty shoot-out.
‘It is without a doubt my last European Championship,’ the 39-year-old who has played in 1,266 career matches said, via Portuguese outlet O Jogo.
‘But I don’t get emotional about that, I get emotional about everything that football involves.
‘Because of the enthusiasm I have for the game, the enthusiasm of seeing my supporters, my family, the affection that people have for me.
‘It’s not about leaving football, because if I do, what else would I need to do or win?
‘It won’t be about getting one more point or one less point. Making people happy is what motivates me the most.’