CR7 misses a close chance and makes critics doubt

In the Nations League duel between Portugal and Wales, Cristiano Ronaldo was once again at the centre of attention, but the 41‑year‑old CR7 let a huge three‑metre chance go unused in the 49th minute, reigniting the ongoing debate about his remaining time in international football.

Missed chance from three metres

After a cross from Ruben Neves, the Al‑Nassr superstar, the Saudi club, was only about three metres from the goal. Instead of striking the ball cleanly, it bounced off his shin and sent the shot far over the Welsh goal line, so he could not close the net for his team.

Shortly after, in the 59th minute, Ronaldo calmly finished a pass from Bruno Fernandes, but the video referee ruled that, due to an off‑side position, his 974th career goal did not count.

Portugal eventually won 1‑0, thanks to a goal from Joao Felix, also from Al‑Nassr, which marked the sole difference to the victory.

In the 74th minute, Ruben Dias made a saving parry to prevent an equaliser for Wales, further securing Portugal's narrow lead.

Ronaldo accuses Jesus of betrayal and apologises to Portugal

Criticism and coach's comment

The missed opportunity fed the voices that claim Ronaldo's time has run out. National coach Jorge Jesus, 72, emphasised that the past is irrelevant and that Ronaldo is a player like any other: performance decides on selection.

Jesus added that only current form, not Ronaldo's five‑time Ballon d’Or success, should play a role in selection decisions. After the disappointing World Cup round‑of‑16 match against Spain, confidence in the veteran star in Portugal had waned.

Ronaldo left his future in the Selecao open and said he does not want to make a hasty decision, although a return is still expected.

Ronaldo accuses Jesus of broken promises, Portugal in crisis

His teammates continue to show respect: Fabio Silva, who has been active at Borussia Dortmund since the end of 2024, called Ronaldo an idol and said he tries to learn from him.