CRISTIANO RONALDO was on the verge of tears as he lined up for Portugal’s World Cup opener against Ghana on Thursday.
The former Manchester United forward, 37, has become the fifth outfield player to take part in FIVE World Cup finals since his tournament debut back in 2006.
And, in what is expected to be the start of his final appearance at the competition, it is clear the occasion was a lot for him to take in.
Ronaldo lined up for the national anthem and was clearly very emotional.
He proudly sung the national anthem with a great amount of passion, but appeared on the verge of tears throughout.
Ronaldo’s Portugal have been drawn in Group H alongside Ghana, Uruguay and South Korea.
And while they did claim the European Championships in 2016, they have not gone beyond the last 16 at the World Cup since 2006 – when Ronaldo and Co reached the semi-finals.
The clash with Ghana comes just days after their captain’s Man Utd contract was ripped up.
Remarkably, he is now playing in Qatar as a free agent.
Speaking after the Red Devils terminated his deal, Ronaldo said: “Following talks with Manchester United, we’ve mutually agreed to end our contract.
“I love Manchester United and I love the fans, that will never ever change.
“It feels like the right time to seek a new challenge. I wish Man Utd all the best.”
He has been linked with a host of clubs in the January window including Chelsea, Sporting Lisbon or even a transfer to the MLS.
