CR7 bows out of final World Cup with 'clear conscience'Star stays stoic following heartbreaking late defeat to SpainAgencies | Updated: 2026-07-08 09:24

　　

　　

　　

Cristiano Ronaldo fights back tears after playing his last World Cup match for Portugal, as his dream of winning soccer's biggest prize ended with a 1-0 round-of-16 defeat to Spain on Monday.[Photo/Agencies]

　　Cristiano Ronaldo walked off the pitch after his final World Cup match for Portugal with a stoic look on his face and only the slightest hint of emotion. There was a brief wave to acknowledge cheering fans, and the same feeling he has had after past losses.

　　"Sad — it's normal after being eliminated like this," said Ronaldo, who briefly shielded his eyes with his right hand after the match.