Cristiano Ronaldo announced his readiness for Euro 2024 with a brilliant double as Portugal completed their preparations with a 3-0 friendly win over Republic of Ireland.
The 39-year-old Ronaldo, who had earlier hit the post with a deflected free-kick, scored his 129th and 130th international goals in the 50th and 60th minutes to mark his 207th senior cap - just over a week before Portugal's Group F campaign begins. Against Czech Republic in Leipzig under manager Roberto Martínez. Ronaldo's captain's brace, along with Joao Felix's first-half opener, earned the hosts a comfortable victory in Aveiro. This dealt a sobering blow to John O'Shea's audition for the permanent Republic of Ireland head coach job in the second phase of evaluation.
While Ireland wasn't expected to beat a Portugal side ranked 54 places above them, O'Shea's exhortations for his team to be "horrible" opponents came to nothing. The organization and resilience they showed in frustrating and eventually beating Hungary a week prior deserted them against Portugal's relentless attack.
Ireland had started confidently, with debutant Jake O'Brien twice standing firm to deny Bruno Fernandes and Joao Cancelo. However, Kaohin Kelleher had to block Felix's 18th-minute shot after Fernandes, Ronaldo and Diogo Dalot combined well. But it was Ronaldo who stole the show, his double salvo reaffirming his status as Portugal's talismanic match-winner ahead of Euro 2024.
The respite for Ireland was temporary as they switched off at a Portuguese corner. Cancelo and Fernandes played it short before feeding Felix, who drilled a low drive into the bottom corner to open the scoring.
Four minutes later, the woodwork came to Kelleher's rescue when Ronaldo, making his first appearance after sitting out the recent friendlies, aimed a 25-yard free-kick. His effort clipped Adam Idah in the wall and came back off the upright, with Seamus Coleman clearing the rebound from Leao.
Fernandes curled a 29th-minute effort wide from Ronaldo's lay-off as Joao Neves orchestrated from midfield and Felix probed, as Portugal shifted through the gears to pin Ireland back.
Idah made a rare Irish foray forward 10 minutes before half-time but delayed his pass to Sammie Szmodics, whose shot was blocked. The Norwich striker then blasted into the side-netting after Coleman had worked space in the Portugal box.
Leao fired over after cutting in menacingly, and Ronaldo was denied a stoppage-time penalty after going down under Brady's challenge to his clear annoyance.
The Al-Nassr striker almost had the last laugh before the break when putting Fernandes' clever lay-off straight at Kelleher.
The second half brought little let-up despite five Portuguese changes, as they continued to dominate possession before extending their lead within five minutes.
Ronaldo pulled wide right to receive Ruben Neves' long ball, cut inside Liam Scales, and dispatched a left-footed strike into the top corner.
He added his second on the hour, sweeping home Diogo Jota's cross as Ireland wilted under the sustained pressure.
Kelleher parried a Fernandes shot, and fortunately emerged unscathed after a tangle with Ronaldo, before watching another Fernandes attempt deflected wide on a night of little joy for the travelling Irish fans.
Cristiano Ronaldo's participation in Euro 2024 brings significant benefits for Portugal, both on and off the field. Here's how his presence impacts the country:
On the Field
- Leadership and Experience: Ronaldo's extensive experience in international competitions provides invaluable leadership to the team. As one of the most capped players in international football, his presence boosts team morale and provides a sense of direction.
- Performance: Despite his age, Ronaldo continues to perform at a high level, contributing crucial goals and assists. His ability to change the course of a match with his skill and determination is a significant asset for Portugal.
- Inspiration for Teammates: Young players look up to Ronaldo, and his work ethic and professionalism set a high standard. His presence motivates teammates to elevate their game.
Off the Field
- Economic Impact: Ronaldo's global popularity translates into increased economic activity. Merchandising, ticket sales, and sponsorships see a significant boost when he is part of the squad. This influx of revenue benefits the Portuguese Football Federation and related industries.
- Tourism: Ronaldo's participation can attract fans from around the world, boosting tourism. Hotels, restaurants, and other businesses benefit from the increased influx of visitors.
- Media and Marketing: Ronaldo's media presence enhances Portugal's visibility on the global stage. His involvement in promotional activities and endorsements brings additional revenue and attention to Portuguese brands and products.
- National Pride: Ronaldo is a national icon, and his success on the international stage fosters a sense of pride among the Portuguese people. This unity and national pride can have a positive societal impact.
Broader Impact
- Youth Development: Ronaldo's success story inspires young athletes in Portugal to pursue football. This can lead to increased investment in youth academies and development programs, ensuring a strong future for Portuguese football.
- Cultural Influence: Ronaldo's influence extends beyond sports, affecting fashion, lifestyle, and fitness trends in Portugal and globally. His brand adds to the cultural cachet of the country.
In summary, Cristiano Ronaldo's involvement in Euro 2024 represents a dual opportunity for Portugal, enhancing their prospects on the field while simultaneously boosting the nation's economy, tourism, and international reputation.
