In the lead-up to the Round of 32 match of the 2026 World Cup between Portugal and Croatia, Kátia Aveiro, sister of Cristiano Ronaldo, made a statement that shook the football world. Upon arriving at the stadium in Toronto, the family member of the Portuguese star referred to her brother's future and launched a strong phrase that took everyone by surprise.
"It's the last dance," she asserted with conviction. Her words point directly to the end of CR7's cycle in the national team after playing his sixth World Cup at the age of 41.
Confidence amidst the emotion
Kátia spoke with the media in Canada and highlighted the importance of enjoying the moment. She recalled being present in Qatar and now accompanying the team in this tournament, showing full confidence in her brother's performance. "Ronaldo is confident, he's less nervous than we are," she expressed.
When asked about a possible participation in Euro 2028, she was clear and direct: according to the information she has, it is time to say goodbye to the Portugal jersey. She did not refer to the future in clubs, but she did indicate that this World Cup represents the farewell at the national team level.
Records that mark a unique career
At 41 years and 138 days, Ronaldo also became the oldest player to score a brace in a World Cup, surpassing the record previously held by Lionel Messi. These achievements underscore the relevance and greatness of a player who continues to write history even in the final stages of his career.
Portugal faced Croatia, which qualified second in its group with six points behind England. The atmosphere in Toronto was special, with expectations placed on a Cristiano looking to close his international cycle in the best possible way.
Ronaldo's family has always been close during key moments. Kátia, who accompanies him on this adventure, conveyed a message of enjoyment for the more than twenty years of career they have shared. "The most important thing is to enjoy these twenty-plus years we have lived", she noted.
