Portuguese icon Cristiano Ronaldo made history on June 27, becoming the first European player to reach 50 appearances in major international tournaments. He achieved the feat during Portugal’s final Group F clash against Georgia at Veltins-Arena, where his side suffered a disappointing 2-0 defeat.
The 39-year-old veteran holds the record for the highest goal scorer in international football history with 130 goals in his tally. The match against Georgia marked his 210th appearance at the international arena. Additionally, the current EURO is his sixth European Championship, and has appeared in five FIFA World Cups throughout his celebrated career.
The Real Madrid legend also holds the record for the most games played at the FIFA World Cup. He joins an elite list that includes Lothar Matthaus, Lionel Messi, Antonio Carbajal, Andres Guardado, and Rafael Marquez.
Georgia stuns Cristiano Ronaldo and Co. in their final Group F clash
Portugal encountered Georgia in their last Group F match after already securing their berth in the Round of 16. Roberto Martinez’s men conceded a goal by Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and a penalty converted by Georges Mikautadze. Notably, the win marked their historic advancement in their maiden European Championship appearance.
Portugal began their campaign with a narrow 2-1 victory over Czechia, followed by a convincing 3-0 win against Turkey. Notably, Portugal clinched their first-ever major trophy in the 2016 EURO under Cristiano Ronaldo’s captaincy by defeating France.
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