Ronaldo: I have not yet made a final decision on retiring

Cristiano Ronaldo dedicated Portugal’s 2-1 win over Croatia to his late team-mate Diogo Jota, saying the forward was with the squad in spirit. He said the victory was the best tribute Portugal could offer.

Ronaldo said every player felt Jota’s presence around the dressing room and that the result carried extra meaning because of it. He also said he had expected a difficult match and had told his team-mates they would need to suffer to win.

Portugal controlled the first half, but the game became more complicated after the break, which Ronaldo said was natural in football. Croatia’s goal brought a spell of tension, before Portugal’s penalty lifted the side and made the closing stages easier.

Ronaldo also revealed a post-match exchange with Luka Modrić, calling the Croatia captain a true football legend. He added that he had a lot of respect for Modrić’s career and everything he continues to do in the game.

Asked about his international future after the World Cup, Ronaldo said he has not made a decision and does not want to rush it.