Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo says he will leave the FIFA World Cup with a "clear conscience" after his country's hopes of glory ended in a heartbreaking 1-0 defeat to Spain in the Round of 16.
The defeat brought the curtain down on what is expected to be his final appearance at football's biggest tournament.
The veteran striker had spoken candidly before the knockout clash, insisting he would have no regrets regardless of the outcome.
"Look, I will be honest with you. No matter what happens tomorrow, Cristiano will leave here with a clear conscience. Not 100 per cent, 1000 per cent," Ronaldo said.
"Do you know why? Because in life, in football, I have given everything I had—my passion, my desire."
Portugal's World Cup campaign came to a painful end after a disciplined defensive display was undone by a dramatic late goal from Spain's Mikel Merino.
The fiercely contested Iberian derby appeared destined for extra time before Merino struck deep into stoppage time, sending Spain into the quarter-finals and leaving Portugal's players devastated.
Despite creating several promising opportunities, Portugal struggled to find the decisive finish against Spain's organised defence. Spain gradually took control of possession in the latter stages before finally breaking the deadlock with the match's decisive moment.
For Ronaldo, the defeat marked the likely end of a remarkable World Cup journey that saw him become the first player to score in six different editions of the tournament.
The 41-year-old said his motivation throughout his career had always been driven by love for the game rather than obligation.
"Playing all these years was not out of necessity, as you know. Thank God I am in a very good place in life. It is about passion," he said. "I play for my national team and my clubs because I love playing football. Whatever happens tomorrow, I will be happy."
Ronaldo added that he had never burdened himself with the expectation of winning every trophy.
"I can't put that kind of pressure on myself, to reach the end of my career thinking, 'You have to win, you are obligated to win.' That is not how it is. Whatever God wills."
"It is about enjoying every day, enjoying every match, enjoying a great competition like the FIFA World Cup."
Portugal's elimination also signalled the end of an era, with head coach Roberto Martínez confirming he would step down following the team's exit.
While the result ended Portugal's dream of lifting the
trophy, Ronaldo leaves the global stage as one of the greatest players in World
Cup history, having inspired generations through a career defined by passion,
longevity and unwavering commitment.
