Cristiano Ronaldo Continues with Portugal as He Chases 1,000 Goals

Cristiano Ronaldo said he wants to keep playing for Portugal after the 2026 World Cup and he will be on the pitch for his 234th match with the national team, when Wales face Portugal in the Nations League on Thursday, September 24.

The Portuguese attacker will make his return to the national team He will start for Portugal for the first time under new head coach Jorge Jesus at the José Alvalade Stadium in Lisbon. Ronaldo previously played under Jesus for one year at Al-Nassr. winning the Saudi Pro League together.

Ronaldo’s record of 979 career goals, including 146 for Portugal, leaves him 21 goals short of the 1,000-goal milestone. Although he remains determined to reach that target, he insists it has not become an obsession. 

Ronaldo Explains His Decision to Continue With Portugal

Speaking ahead of the Wales match, Ronaldo acknowledged that he had seriously considered his international future following Portugal’s World Cup exit. However, discussions with the Portuguese football federation president and Jesus helped convince him to remain available for selection. 

“This is why you see me here now. It means I will continue,” he said, in comments reported by Sky Sports. 

Whether Ronaldo decides to continue playing international football will depend on whether he is still useful for the national team, he said. Ronaldo said that his experience is valuable to Portugal’s younger generation of players, both on and off the pitch. However, he added that what ultimately matters is scoring goals and helping the national team win matches..

Aiming for His 1,000th Career Goal in Portugal Colours

Cristiano made it clear that scoring his 1,000th career goal would not automatically mark the end of his playing career. 

“Scoring my 1,000th goal for the national team would be the culmination of  a beautiful story,” he said. Although Ronaldo is confident that he will reach the milestone, he said he is also trying to enjoy his football.

Ronaldo also said he wants both to reach 1,000 goals and to help the national team win the Nations League. 

Ronaldo Responds to Criticism Over His Selection

Ronaldo’s continued involvement has prompted debate in Portugal. Ahead of the Wales fixture, readers taking part in an A Bola poll selected a starting XI that did not include him. 

The forward acknowledged criticism from sections of the media but said he still feels supported by Portuguese fans. After more than two decades in the spotlight, he said he prefers to focus on those who appreciate him and on the example he provides for younger supporters. 

Jesus has made it clear that Ronaldo’s reputation does not guarantee selection. Announcing his first Portugal squad, Jesus said that the players will be judged on their current performances rather than their past achievements. 

Bellamy Praises Ronaldo Ahead of Wales Test

Wales manager Craig Bellamy praised Ronaldo’s longevity and the scale of his goalscoring achievements ahead of the Nations League opener. Bellamy made it clear that he wants Wales to prevent him from moving closer to the milestone in Lisbon. 

Bellamy also warned his players that Ronaldo remains dangerous.