Cristiano Ronaldo proved he still has an elite mentality after he was captured having words with goalkeeper Diogo Costa at the end of Portugal’s match against Ghana.
Ronaldo scored the match’s first goal on Thursday from the penalty spot in the 65th minute. Portugal’s lead was short-lived as Andre Ayew drew Ghana level eight minutes later.
Joao Felix and Rafael Leao made it 3-1 to Portugal before Osman Bukari made it 3-2 in the 89th minute, which created a nervy end to the match for the 2016 European champions.
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It was nearly 3-3 right at the death after Portugal No 1 Costa put the ball down inside the penalty area without realising that Ghana forward Inaki Williams was right behind him.
Fortunately for Costa, Williams slipped at the most crucial moment and failed to get a proper shot away to rescue a point for Ghana.
Although the 23-year-old Porto player’s blunder didn’t ultimately cost his side three points, Costa was visibly frustrated at full-time.
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Ronaldo walked over to his teammates and demanded Costa cheer up as Portugal have just recorded a vital victory to start their World Cup campaign in the best possible way.
“We won, you have to laugh, we won! Another victory and we go through, you can laugh, let's go! We won,” Ronaldo was heard saying.
Fans were quick to praise Ronaldo on social media for his “GOAT mentality” and leadership as Portugal captain.
One fan said: “This is why Cristiano Ronaldo is the GOAT.”
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Another tweeted: “GOAT mentality.”
While a third fan added: “Greatest leader of all time.”
It has been a tough season so far for Ronaldo after his Manchester United career turned sour in a matter of weeks.
Earlier in the week, Ronaldo and United mutually agreed to part ways after the 37-year-old Portuguese star’s explosive interview with Piers Morgan.
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During the interview, Ronaldo was very critical of the club, former manager Ralf Rangnick, current United boss Erik ten Hag and ex-teammates including Wayne Rooney and Gary Neville.
READ MORE:
- Bruno Fernandes calls out fans who have been criticising Cristiano Ronaldo
- Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo branded a 'cheat' after winning penalty against Ghana
- Cristiano Ronaldo’s press conference lasted 2 minutes and 12 seconds after Portugal win
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner is now a free agent and the rumours about his next club have already begun circulating. In the last few days, the likes of Chelsea, Newcastle United, Inter Miami, Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr have all been linked with Portugal skipper Ronaldo.
Topics: Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal, Ghana, Football World Cup, Football
Marcus Chan