“He scores because he’s committed to the national team” - Portugal boss Roberto Martinez on Cristiano Ronaldo reaching 900 career goals
Portugal manager Roberto Martinez has hailed legendary forward Cristiano Ronaldo after he scored his 900th career goal in the 2-1 UEFA Nations League win over Croatia on Thursday. The Al-Nassr superstar reached the milestone by scoring the second goal for A Selecao in front of their fans in Lisbon.
Following a disappointing Euro 2024 campaign - where they crashed out in the quarter-finals - Portugal were back in action in the Nations League as Ronaldo ended a five-game scoring drought for his national team.
Martinez praised Ronaldo for his commitment to the team and referred to his landmark goal as 'historic' for Portuguese football.
"It's a historic moment. 900 goals is incredible. It's not easy. He scores because he's committed to the national team, he works hard in training that no one can see, he has the energy to help the youngsters, and his commitment is an asset to the national team.
"It's a historic moment. The fans loved it, and being on the day of the tribute to Pepe is special. It's fantastic for Portuguese football, the World Cup and for the national team."
Cristiano Ronaldo has scored 131 goals since making his Portugal in 2003, extending his record as the most prolific male scorer international football.
Cristiano Ronaldo scores historic goal as Portugal down Croatia in Nations League opener
Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo grabbed the headlines in Benfica's stadium as he helped his country to a 2-1 win over Croatia in the Nations League.
On the day when the Selecao celebrated Pepe, who retired this summer aged 41, Cristiano Ronaldo took the opportunity to make history. Martinez's side went ahead through a Diogo Dalot strike after seven minutes.
Ronaldo doubled their lead in the 34th minute, latching onto a cross from Nuno Mendes to side-foot home his 900th career goal. The forward became the first player in history to attain the landmark.
Croatia pulled one back before half-time when Dalot put the ball through his own net, but Portugal held on for the win. They next take on Scotland in Lisbon on Sunday.