Speaking like a true leader, Ronaldo urged his Portugal teammates to stand proud of everything they’ve achieved after losing to France.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal’s dream of winning back-to-back Nations League titles ended on Saturday in a 1-0 defeat to France.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner was arguably the most involved player in the Portuguese squad. He recorded a team-best of six shots in a game that offered fewer clear-cut chances as it wore on, even forcing Hugo Lloris into a fine save.
And while Cristiano headed his best chance over the bar in the opening half, he later set up substitute Joao Moutinho for a late equalizer. But Lloris was able to save the Wolves midfielder’s shot on goal.
N’Golo Kante’s 53rd-minute goal was enough in the end to secure France victory and a spot in the finals at the expense of title holders Portugal.
But Ronaldo has called on his team, who have won the Nations League and European championship in the last four years, to stand proud.
“All games teach us something,” the captain wrote on Instagram.
“Unfortunately we did not achieve our goal.
“We have to raise our heads and be proud of everything we have been achieving together!”
Ronaldo and Portugal will have one last Nations League game away to Croatia on Tuesday before the international break ends.
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