“They’ll respect their dad more” – Cristiano Ronaldo explains why his kids supported Spain in UEFA Nations League final 

Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed that his children were supporting Spain during the UEFA Nations League final against Portugal on Sunday (June 8). The 40-year-old explained that his kids’ allegiance lies with his opponents because they are Spanish.

Cristiano Ronaldo lifted his third major international trophy with Portugal, as Roberto Martinez’s men defeated Spain on penalties in the UEFA Nations League final. Speaking after the game, Ronaldo explained why his kids decided to support Spain instead of his country. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner said in an interview (via O Jogo):

The Spaniards took the lead in the 21st minute via Martin Zubimendi’s strike before Nuno Mendes equalized for Portugal five minutes later. However, Luis de la Fuente’s men regained the lead just before the break, courtesy of Mike Oyarzabal’s 45th-minute strike.

Cristiano Ronaldo found the back of the net in the 61st minute, and the scoreline remained 2-2 until the end of the regulation time. Despite chances on both ends, neither side could break the deadlock in extra time.

During the penalty shootout, the Spaniards stayed level with their opponents until Alvaro Morata’s missed spot-kick. Portugal went on to win the shootout 5-3, winning their second Nations League trophy.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored eight goals at the UEFA Nations League this season.

Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed that he was not fully fit before the Nations League final against Spain began.

The Portugal captain was named in the starting lineup, but he didn’t play the entire 90 minutes. Ronaldo went down injured and was replaced by Goncalo Ramos in the 88th minute.

Although it was not a serious injury, the former Real Madrid star claimed that he would break his leg if he had to for his national team. Ronaldo said (via the aforementioned outlet’s report):

Akshaye Raphael

Akshaye is a journalist who covers European football at Sportskeeda, with Chelsea FC being his favorite team. He was introduced to the sport at a young age by his brother and has been interested in both playing and watching football since.

Akshaye tried his hand at a professional football career before joining Sportskeeda. Although it didn’t work out, his passion for the sport lives on through his writing, where he can use the knowledge he has amassed over the years.

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