Stars of UEFA EURO 2016: Cristiano Ronaldo
Friday, May 27, 2016
Article summary
A goalscoring machine who will no doubt be eyeing Michel Platini's record for most EURO goals in the summer, Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo barely needs any introduction.
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At a glance
Cristiano Ronaldo is indubitably Portugal's main man, the successor – and then some – to Luís Figo and his team's driving force. His style, commitment and motivation consistently propel his country forward. In the senior side since the age of 18, Ronaldo is not just a virtuoso performer; he also brings out the best in his colleagues. He is Portugal's biggest weapon, their all-time leading scorer and only three appearances away from becoming their most-capped player.
EURO pedigree
Ronaldo has been destined for the very top from the start. He was electric for Sporting CP as a 17-year-old in 2002/03 and a move to Manchester United quickly followed. Ronaldo made his Portugal debut in August 2003 and this will be his fourth UEFA European Championship. He forced his way into the starting XI at his first, on home soil in 2004, helping Portugal to the final. Ronaldo was not quite as influential in 2008 but impressed once more four years ago, scoring three to fire Portugual to the semis.
What he offers
Importance for Portugal
A leader by example, Ronaldo was initially a winger who has added a phenomenal capacity for goals over the years. The 31-year-old is now a scoring machine who also provides plenty of assists for team-mates. Ronaldo is versatile enough to allow coach Fernando Santos to choose from two formations, deploying him wider or through the middle.
International career
Debut: Portugal 1-0 Kazakhstan (20 August 2003, friendly)
Appearances: 125
Goals: 56
EURO final tournament
Appearances: 14
Goals: 6
Record: W8 L4 D2*
*Both ended in penalty shoot-outs
