Ronaldo's 1000th Goal Dream: The Next Chapter for Portugal and a Saudi-Proud Mission

Ronaldo Addresses 1000th Goal Talk, World Cup Hopes, and a New Chapter

Before Portugal's World Cup qualifying clash with Ireland, Cristiano Ronaldo, captain of Al-Nassr, spoke about his future and his international journey. He touched on what lies ahead as Portugal hosts Ireland in a pivotal qualifier. Portugal sits top of Group 6 with 10 points, Ireland four, while Hungary sit second and Armenia occupy the bottom.

Winning tonight would seal a place at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, though a draw could be enough under certain results.

He also teased a potential “happy ending” if he reaches 1000 goals during the 2026 World Cup final, telling a journalist that such talk sounded like a movie plot. The main message, he said, is to help Portugal reach the tournament regardless of milestones.

Smart, Adaptable, and Proud of his Saudi Chapter

Ronaldo spoke about the evolution of football, saying the game has changed in recent years and that intelligence and adaptation matter more than ever. He said the difference is made by the mind, given the physical and mental demands of club and country in a crowded calendar.

Asked about potential jeers in Ireland, he said he is used to pressure and would carry it for his teammates if necessary. He praised his current relationship with coach Roberto Martinez and stressed that qualification remains the target.

Ronaldo then reflected on his time in the Saudi league with Al-Nassr, noting that he feels more connected to Saudi Arabia after three years. He spoke about his children, their happiness, and his wish to be remembered as a devoted professional and an inspirational figure.

Retirement Musings, Family, and a Forward-Looking Mindset

On retirement, Ronaldo said the countdown starts as age advances. “I am enjoying a wonderful spell now, scoring goals and feeling quick and sharp, but the clock is counting in months,” he joked, adding that the goal might be seen as a final chapter in 2026 when he would be 41.

His aim is to feature in the World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and he stressed that whether the milestone comes or not, his focus remains on helping Portugal reach the finals and inspiring the next generation. He also teased that his future might hold more conversations about football and its direction.

He closed with a reminder that life is complex, that he plans to spend more time with his family away from the pitch, and that he will continue to strive to be remembered for professionalism and generosity. “I might not retire anytime soon, perhaps in ten years,” he quipped; for now, the journey continues, and the goals keep coming. Punchline time: if Ronaldo scores 1000, the net will need a bigger trophy shelf; and if I try to keep up with him, I should invest in a better calculator.