The Child Prodigy: When Cristiano Ronaldo was unveiled as a Portuguese player for the first time on this day


The Child Prodigy: When Cristiano Ronaldo was unveiled as a Portuguese player for the first time on this day

Back in 2003, the Portuguese international- Cristiano Ronaldo set his steps on the international ground, against Kazakhstan. Ronaldo made his senior international debut at the age of 18 and has since earned over 170 caps, including appearing and scoring in eleven major tournaments, becoming Portugal’s most capped player and his country’s all-time top goal scorer.

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Mapped the whole ground all with his quick feet and elite dribbling skills, leaving his fellow players and Manager in awe. Cristiano Ronaldo was only 18 years old when he made his debut for Portugal against Kazakhstan in a 1-0 win in August 2003.

The youngster came on as a substitute for the legendary Luis Figo at half-time with the scores at 0-0. Ronaldo’s brilliance was on display as soon as he touched the ball as his trickery was too much to handle for the Kazhakstan defense. Simao scored the only goal of the game but it was Ronaldo who stole the limelight with his impressive showing for 45 minutes.

READ MORE: Chelsea owner Todd Boehly ‘tried to offer a £480k-a-week contract to Cristiano Ronaldo against Thomas Tuchel’s wishes: Reports

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Cristiano Ronaldo’s milestone records for Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo is by far the all-time top goal scorer now with 117 goals in 189 appearances since. Be it the European international records he is the top goal scorer there as well. Having won 2 major international trophies – UEFA Euro Championship 2016 and UEFA Nations League 2019.

Before the advancement of Ronaldo in Portugal, the nation had no major international silverware and no major records since then. Portugal with Cristiano has successfully managed to have qualified in each EURO cup and World Cup competition, including a World Cup semi-final.

Cristiano is believed to be the greatest international goal scorer and the greatest international player (without a World Cup).

ALSO READ: WATCH: “I’m gonna get mine too”- Bukayo Saka’s envious reaction after Aaron Ramsdale talks about Cristiano Ronaldo’s game-worn jersey

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