Ronaldo's Sister Announces His International Retirement After Round of 16 Win vs Croatia

Cristiano Ronaldo scored his first goal in a World Cup knockout match — at his sixth attempt — to equalize against Croatia on Thursday, before Portugal won 2-1 and advanced to the quarter-finals. But it was an announcement made outside Toronto stadium that dominated the evening.

Katia Aveiro, sister of the five-time Ballon d’Or winner, told Portuguese television that this sixth World Cup would be the last competition of Cristiano Ronaldo’s international career. “We must enjoy these moments because this sixth World Cup is his last,” she said, clarifying that she had this information from sources close to the player.

The announcement comes in a tense context for CR7, who has been criticized since the start of the tournament. His sister defended him without hesitation: “Whoever doesn’t love Cristiano Ronaldo doesn’t love football.” She concluded her remarks by performing the “Siuu”, the signature celebration of the Funchal native.

On the pitch, Ronaldo had opened his account in the Round of 16 before being replaced by Ruben Neves in the 75th minute, when the score was still 1-1. An early substitution that fueled speculation about his international future, with manager Roberto Martinez choosing to do without him in the closing stages.

Portugal will face Spain in the quarter-finals on Monday at 21:00 in Dallas. If Ronaldo’s international retirement is confirmed, this Iberian clash could be one of his last appearances in the Seleção shirt.