CORNERFLICK
Cristiano Ronaldo left the World Cup in tears after Portugal were beaten by Spain in Dallas, a result that almost certainly ends his hopes of winning football’s biggest prize.
Portugal had matched Spain deep into stoppage time in a tight, tactical contest. Roberto Martinez’s side repelled repeated attacks, Diogo Costa made several important saves and Ronaldo worked hard to influence the game, but Mikel Merino struck in the 91st minute to settle it.
The 41-year-old had travelled to the United States with the sense that this could be his final shot at the title that has always escaped him. He did have bright moments in the tournament and threatened Unai Simon on several occasions, including a second-half run past defenders that recalled his peak years, but Spain’s organised defence shut him out.
Ronaldo’s international career has brought five Ballons d’Or, Euro 2016, the Nations League, multiple Champions League titles and a long list of scoring records. The World Cup remains the one major honour missing from his collection, and by the time the next edition arrives in 2030 he will be 45.