Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi paid tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo after Portugal crashed out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The tribute came after Spain ended Portugal’s campaign in the Round of 16 — GoalNigeria.com reports.
Spain beat Portugal 1-0 after Mikel Merino scored a late winner. The result sent Spain into the quarter-finals and brought Portugal’s World Cup campaign to an end.
The defeat also ended Ronaldo’s World Cup career. The 40-year-old had confirmed before the tournament that this would be his final appearance on football’s biggest stage.
Soon after the match, Ndidi shared a brief message on X to honour the Portugal captain. His post recognised Ronaldo’s achievements after another milestone in the forward’s career.
Ronaldo closes the curtain on World Cup career
Ronaldo left the pitch in tears after Portugal’s defeat. He ended his World Cup journey without lifting the one major trophy missing from his collection.
The Portugal captain featured in six FIFA World Cups. He also became the first player to score in six different editions of the tournament.
Ndidi’s message joined tributes from players and supporters across the football world. The Super Eagles captain showed respect for one of football’s greatest players and his achievements over two decades.
Ndidi remains one of Nigeria’s senior players and continues to lead the national team. His gesture reflected the respect shared among elite footballers, regardless of rivalry or nationality.
Spain now turn their attention to the quarter-finals as they continue their bid for the World Cup title. Portugal, meanwhile, leaves the tournament after Ronaldo’s final appearance on the global stage.
