Cristiano Ronaldo stepped up to take a penalty for Portugal against Croatia in Toronto – and as he scored to level the round-of-32 match, his sister was dropping a bombshell back home.
Speaking to Portuguese broadcaster SportTV before kick-off, Katia Aveiro claimed she believes the 41-year-old will retire from international football tonight if Portugal lose. “From the information I have, they can say goodbye,” she said. “I believe this is their farewell. Enjoy it a lot. It will be difficult to find someone like him.”
“Cristiano Ronaldo levels for Portugal from the penalty spot as his sister claims he will retire if they lose to Croatia.”
The Portugal captain, who was named in the starting line-up, has been criticised for his performances at the World Cup despite scoring two goals – both in the 5-0 win over Uzbekistan. This match against Croatia could be his last competitive appearance on the biggest stage. “It’s the last dance for two players, both for Croatia and for Portugal,” Aveiro added, referring also to Luka Modric, Ronaldo’s former Real Madrid teammate.
As the game unfolded, Ronaldo drew his side level from the penalty spot. The round-of-32 clash in Toronto is part of the FIFA World Cup 2026, with the winner set to face Spain in the last 16. Aveiro said she felt “good energy and confidence” from Ronaldo before the match, adding: “For us fans, it brings comfort. We can trust.”
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has scored three goals in the tournament so far, but his sister’s words have added a layer of drama to an already high-stakes encounter. “He’s been tearing it up for over 20 years,” she said. “Do they think the criticism will interfere with our happiness? Never.”
If Portugal lose, it could be the end of an era. As Aveiro put it: “Enjoy it while it lasts.”