Cristiano Ronaldo's illustrious FIFA World Cup journey came to an emotional end as Portugal suffered a 1-0 defeat to Spain in the Round of 16. Mikel Merino's stoppage-time winner in Dallas sent Spain into the quarter-finals and ended Ronaldo's hopes of lifting the only major trophy missing from his decorated career.
The 41-year-old left the pitch in tears after what he had previously confirmed would be his final World Cup appearance. Ronaldo retires from the tournament as the only player to score in six different World Cups and with a record 976 career goals for club and country.
Despite winning five Ballon d'Or awards, five UEFA Champions League titles and leading Portugal to the Euro 2016 crown, the World Cup trophy remained out of reach. After the defeat, Ronaldo said he would spend time with his family before deciding whether to continue representing Portugal at international level.
