“200 Games is Unbelievable” – Suffered at ‘Leader’ Cristiano Ronaldo’s Hands, Portugal Boss Recalls Facing Al Nassr Star

In the world of soccer, legends are born not just through their prolific goal-scoring records or mesmerizing skills, but also through their leadership on and off the pitch. One such legend is Cristiano Ronaldo, who continues to defy age and expectations by leaving a trail of admirers in his wake. As Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez prepares his squad ahead of the Euro 2024 qualifiers, he can’t help but marvel at the incredible journey of Portugal’s superstar.

Roberto Martinez praised Cristiano Ronaldo’s role as a leader and recalled his suffering when he faced Ronaldo as an opposition.

Portugal boss delighted to have Cristiano Ronaldo by his side

Portugal national team manager and head coach Roberto Martinez has hailed Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of their Euro Cup qualifiers as the forward marks 20 years of service for Portugal. The Al Nassr talisman was named in Portugal’s squad on Friday for the upcoming qualifiers against Slovakia and Luxembourg. With Cristiano Ronaldo in electric form for Al Nassr recently, Martinez called up on Portugal’s all-time leading goal scorer to mark his presence in the upcoming international games.

In a statement shared by FPF, Roberto Martinez praised Ronaldo for his leadership qualities and his history with Ronaldo when he was managing Everton few years ago. Martinez said, “We talk a lot about Ronaldo’s role as a leader, but 200 games is unbelievable. I remember the game between Real Madrid and Everton. I suffered a lot from Cristiano.”

He added, “I really like having him in my dressing room, and not in the other team’s dressing room.”

Martinez reflected upon the game between Real Madrid and Everton, when he was the manager of Everton. Although it was a pre-season friendly game, but Ronaldo proved his clinical prowess in that game for Real Madrid and was believed to be unplayable. He helped Real Madrid clinch a 2-1 victory against the Merseyside club and left Martinez in awe.

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Ronaldo’s remarkable milestone for Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo’s career is nothing short of a soccer epic. He has consistently demonstrated a rare blend of skill, dedication, and leadership that few can match. However, it’s his international journey that currently holds the spotlight. Ronaldo has already grabbed the international record for all-time highest goal-scorer, and now he’s eyeing one more feat to his incredible career.

Ronaldo’s inclusion in the Portugal squad means that he will make his 200th appearance for the national team. From his debut against Kazakhstan in 2003 to the Euro 2024 qualifiers, Ronaldo has signified an unparalleled level of dedication and passion for his country.

As Portugal gears up for the Euro 2024 qualifiers, Roberto Martinez knows he has a true leader in his ranks. Former European champions Portugal sit top of Group J in qualifying for next year’s finals in Germany.

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All eyes will be on Cristiano Ronaldo when Portugal lock horns with Slovakia in Bratislava next Friday before hosting Luxembourg three days later.