Ronaldo becomes oldest player to score brace in World Cup history at 41 years, 138 days

Cristiano Ronaldo responds even more strongly the greater the pressure you put on him.

From loving only the strongest, to loving only you

Given today’s trend, Cristiano Ronaldo is likely to reclaim the record for oldest World Cup hat-trick—currently held by Lionel Messi.

Still just the two of them.

Before stepping onto that green pitch, remember who opened the door for all of you. Remember the 19-year-old boy weeping bitterly after Portugal’s loss in the 2004 European Championship final—left alone on the field, heartbroken, while everyone else had already departed. Remember the 2006 World Cup: again, Cristiano in tears after Portugal’s semifinal defeat to France. It was that young Cristiano who made many of you believe Portuguese players could become the best in the world. He ignited a generation’s dreams. He showed every child in Portugal that they, too, could reach the pinnacle of world football. He showed every child in Portugal that they, too, could reach the pinnacle of world football. For over two decades, he carried this shirt, this crest, and this nation—alone. He fought in every battle. He gritted his teeth through every disappointment. He bore every criticism in silence. He shouldered the hopes of an entire country. Run for him. Give absolutely everything on the pitch—for him. Fight for the crest. Fight for the shirt. Create chances for him. Pass the ball to him. Give him a farewell worthy of his legendary status. Because if Cristiano still possessed the physical peak—the speed, the strength, the stamina—he’d need no one’s help. He’d carry Portugal alone once more—and finish the job himself. But this time, it’s your turn to fight for him—as he has done for Portugal for over twenty years.