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‘We’re a Small Nation With Big Ambitions’ – Cristiano Ronaldo After Portugal Wins 2025 UEFA Nations League

Ronaldo’s Emotional Reaction to Portugal’s Triumph in the 2025 UEFA Nations League Final

image via - @UEFAEURO/ X

Portugal beat Spain 5-3 on penalties after the 2-2 draw to win the UEFA Nations League 2025. Cristiano Ronaldo who scored the equaliser in the second half lifted Portugal’s and his third major international trophy.

Coming from a small town in Portugal, Ronaldo reflected on the new generations and his country in an emotional interview. The 40-year-old who scored his 938th professional goal has records chasing him as he once quoted. Winning three finals out of the three Portugal has appeared in, Ronaldo addressed it as a special day and a special feeling.

Cristiano Ronaldo longevity is insane 😭 pic.twitter.com/3ltzlxb4NJ
— Janty (@CFC_Janty) June 8, 2025

Cristiano Ronaldo Speaks on Joy and Pride in Winning for Portugal

Ronaldo is one of the most decorated football players of all time. Winning the Champions League five times and five Ballon d’Or during his Real Madrid, the 40-year-old had to wait till 2016 for his first International trophy.

Talking about how among the many won titles, nothing compares to winning for Portugal, Ronaldo in his post-match interview said:

“A great joy. Firstly, for this generation, who deserved a title. For the families, my family was here… Winning for Portugal is very special. I have many titles, but nothing compares to winning for Portugal.”

Holding the tears of joy, Ronaldo also addressed the ambitions of Portugal as a nation. Calling it a special day, the Al-Nassr striker continued,

“The tears and the sense of duty… it’s beautiful. We’re a small nation with big ambition. Being captain of this generation is an honour.”

“I’m so happy. It’s a special day. I have to say thank you to all of them. They made my day. They made my night, let’s say it that way.”

Portugal didn’t reach a major tournament final in history till 2004. Appearing and winning three major finals over the past decade, it is safe to say the European nation has come a long way.

After he denies appearing in the Club World Cup 2025, Ronaldo extending his contract with Al-Nassr is most likely. Scoring over 30 goals for two consecutive seasons, the 40-year-old will go again next season in the Saudi Pro League as he chases the 1000 senior goals mark.

Ronaldo and Portugal will also kick off their UEFA World Cup Qualifiers campaign in September as they join Group F. Scoring his 138th goal for his country, Ronaldo is also close to becoming the first player to score 150 International goals.

Cristiano Ronaldo

Portugal

UEFA Nations League

Mayur Dedwal

soccer

I’m a Sports Content Writer with expertise in football. Being a decade old football enthusiast and part-time coach, I try to bring to life to the articles in a statistical manner. Being around all kinds of sports updates and able to put in my perspective’s to the happenings in the world of football are few of the many things i like in doing what i do. You can find me playing Sunday leagues or Xbox on weekends!