Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo has dedicated his international goals record to his nation after scoring a late winner against Republic of Ireland last night.
Not only did the 36-year-old score the winning header in the sixth minute of stoppage time, but he also scored the equaliser on 89 minutes.
On what was an eventful evening for the new Manchester United forward, Ronaldo had also seen a first-half penalty saved by Republic of Ireland ‘keeper Gavin Bazunu.
Ronaldo’s first goal of the match meant he passed Iran striker Ali Daei to become the highest international goalscorer of all-time.
He then scored his 111th international goal with a bullet header to secure victory.
After the game, he said: “I’m very happy for the two goals and the record, but especially for the team to believe until the end.
“It’s motivation and the desire I have to continue playing football. If we get up every day wanting to do our best and give ourselves joy, we have great motivation.
“This record is mine and unique. I was missing a goal and I scored two, I’m extremely happy.
“I dedicate it to all Portuguese and the entire team.”
Ronaldo’s game-changing brace ensured that Portugal remain on top of Group A in World Cup qualifying. They have recorded 10 points from their four games.
The Republic of Ireland, meanwhile, stay in fourth place having lost all three of their qualifiers so far.
Portugal face Qatar in a friendly on Saturday, before travelling to Azerbaijan for their second World Cup qualifier in a week on Tuesday.
Ronaldo will miss the latter of those games – having been booked for taking his shirt off after scoring the winner last night.
Featured Image Credit: Getty
