New Delhi: In an unforgettable night of football, Cristiano Ronaldo captured the hearts of fans worldwide with his raw emotion after Portugal’s dramatic Nations League victory over Spain. The 40-year-old football legend, who had been subbed off due to cramps was on the sidelines as Portugal won the penalty shootout to clinch their second Nations League title.
Ronaldo couldn’t hold back his emotions and sank to his knees, burying his head in his arms in a scene that mirrored Virat Kohli’s tears of joy after Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s recent IPL triumph.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s reaction to the last penalty.
What a video.
pic.twitter.com/wY8ie7JXNq— TC (@totalcristiano) June 8, 2025
The match was a nail-biting affair as Portugal had to fight back twice after Spain took the lead. Ronaldo, who continues to defy his age, stepped up once again to score the crucial equaliser in the second half, proving why he is still one of the best in the world. His goal gave Portugal the lifeline they needed, pushing the game into extra time and eventually, a tense penalty shootout.
Ronaldo’s Virat Kohli moment
When Portugal’s final penalty was converted, sealing the title, the cameras caught Ronaldo collapsing to the ground as he was overwhelmed with relief and emotion. His tears brought back memories of Virat Kohli’s emotional reaction when RCB finally won their first IPL title. Kohli, who had carried the burden of expectations for years, had dropped to his knees with tears in his eyes, a scene that cricket fans around the world will never forget.
Different sports, same emotions
Virat Kohli x Cristiano Ronaldo pic.twitter.com/AbrOjsZdV1— Pari (@BluntIndianGal) June 8, 2025
After the game, Portugal coach Roberto Martinez praised his captain’s influence both on and off the pitch. “A captain with the type of experience he has is essential to show the necessary values and personality,” Martinez said. “Spain was ahead on the scoreboard twice, but the captain has a lot of experience, and we used his experience to show we are ready to win.”
Teammate Nuno Mendes also lauded Ronaldo’s impact, saying, “He deserves everything. He helps us a lot on the pitch and off it. He’s got a winner mentality. He’s a role model. We’re happy we’ve got him.”
At an age when most players have hung up their boots, Ronaldo’s passion and drive continue to inspire his teammates and fans alike. The Nations League title is another feather in his already legendary cap but it’s his emotional reaction which was so human and relatable, that reminded everyone why he is not just a superstar but also a symbol of dedication and perseverance.
Portugal’s Nations League triumph saw Cristiano Ronaldo break down in tears, echoing Virat Kohli’s emotional IPL moment days. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
