The five-time Golden Ball champion thought he had scored a goal in extra time, but it was not given
Cristiano Ronaldo insisted that he proudly wears the Portuguese captain’s armband and threw it to the ground in anger because “an entire nation is being harmed”.
Portugal’s departure for the World Cup with Serbia on Saturday ended in controversy, as Ronaldo appeared to have a legitimate goal that was not awarded in extra time.
He reacted furiously to the final whistle and fired through the tunnel after throwing the armband out after a 2-2 draw.
The incident
Portugal let out a two-goal lead, but launched a late attack and Ronaldo thought he had scored a dramatic victory by hitting a shot past Serbian goalkeeper Marko Dmitrovic.
He started celebrating, the moment the ball was deflected by Serbian defender Stefan Mitrovic.
Ronaldo was convinced that the ball had crossed the line and the TV replays seemed to confirm this assessment, but the referee’s assistant did not score the goal.
After continuing his protests, Ronaldo was cautioned by referee Danny Makkelie, and soon after he left the field – leaving his armband behind.
What was said?
The legendary striker’s reaction raised eyebrows, especially the jettisoning of his armband, and he used Instagram to explain his actions.
“Being captain of the Portugal team is one of the greatest privileges of my life and fills me with pride,” said Ronaldo. “I always give and I will give everything for my country, that will never change.
“But there are difficult times to deal with, especially when we feel that an entire nation is being harmed.”
Portugal face Luxembourg on Tuesday and Ronaldo made a call-up.
“Lift your head and face the next challenge now,” he said. “Come on, Portugal.”
No criticism from the boss
Portugal coach Fernando Santos was also dissatisfied with the controversial incident, demanding the introduction of technology, and said that Ronaldo’s reaction was one of frustration and disappointment.
“I was told that he did not react well,” said Santos. “It is the normal frustration of those who score Portugal’s winning goal that doesn’t count.”