Cristiano Ronaldo scored a spectacular bicycle kick goal for Portugal in their 4-0 win over Liechtenstein in the UEFA Euro Qualifiers on March 23. After the match, Portugal coach Roberto Martinez praised Ronaldo for his commitment and performance.
The goal was Ronaldo’s 120th for Portugal, and it marked his 197th international appearance, making him the most-capped player in men’s international football. It was also the 20th consecutive year in which he has scored for his country.
Speaking after the game, Martinez said (via record.pt): “To be in the national team, you have to be committed. It’s a new cycle. It’s very important that he shows commitment so that we can use his experience, and he shows that commitment.”
Martinez also shared his thoughts on the match, saying: “The balance is very, very positive. We follow the same attitude and work done in training. It’s always very difficult to play these games, they are complicated. The way we were able to play with the ball and suffocate Liechtenstein was important for us.”
He added: “I think we started very well and then we got frustrated, we looked for more individualized actions in the last 25 minutes of the first half. The second half was much better. It was an opportunity for us to gain three points. An opportunity to get to know the players and them to me. It was a very important start.”
Ronaldo took to Twitter to express his delight with the win, and breaking the record for most international appearances. He wrote (translated from Portuguese): “Such good feelings for playing again and scoring for our national team and in a special stadium for me. Proud to be the most capped player ever.”
Ronaldo’s spectacular bicycle kick goal was the highlight of the match, and Martinez was full of praise for the 38-year-old. He said: “It’s a new cycle. It’s important for a player to show commitment and that we can use his experience, and Cristiano shows that.”
Portugal will next face Luxembourg on Sunday, March 26. Martinez will be hoping that Ronaldo can continue his impressive form and help the team to another victory.
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