Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed that he played the UEFA Nations League final while carrying an injury.
Speaking after leading Portugal to a dramatic win against Spain on Sunday, the 40-year-old said he first felt discomfort during the warm-up but chose to play because of the importance of the match for his country.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner told the media (via OJogo):
“I had already felt it [the injury] in the warm-up; it had been coming for some time.
But for the national team, if I had to break a leg, I’d still play. It’s a title, I had to be out there and give my best. I went as far as I could and helped with a goal.”
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Ronaldo scored Portugal’s second goal during the 2-2 draw in Munich before the match was decided on penalties. Portugal eventually triumphed 5-3 in the shootout after 120 minutes at the Allianz Arena.
Reflecting on his mindset, Ronaldo added:
“I had an injury, but I pushed through it, because when it comes to the national team, you have to give everything.”