Cristiano Ronaldo Drops Bombshell Demand as He Chases World Cup Glory

Portugal's skipper Cristiano Ronaldo has encouraged Republic of Ireland supporters to jeer him as he pursues a historic sixth World Cup appearance.

The experienced striker will captain his country at the Aviva Stadium on Thursday night, knowing Portugal needs just one victory to secure their spot at next summer's global tournament.

Before the Dublin encounter, Ronaldo recognized he might face a hostile welcome. He has, indeed, netted four goals against the Republic of Ireland throughout his career. However, in a surprising turn, the veteran player not only embraced the potential criticism but actively encouraged it to benefit his Portuguese colleagues.

"The crowd will jeer me, I'm accustomed to it," Ronaldo stated matter-of-factly during Wednesday's pre-game press briefing. "I genuinely hope they do so, perhaps it will ease the burden on my teammates.

"My main desire is to have fun. It's not the final step but nearly there, we understand that victory means qualification. We aim to complete this task now."

Ronaldo Makes Portugal 'Unique'

Ireland's Icelandic coach Heimir Hallgrímsson praised Ronaldo's relentless hunger for goals as a key element behind Portugal's "distinctive" offensive approach.

"A major factor in their distinctive attacking style is his hunger for goals. They will provide crosses, they will constantly seek him out," Hallgrímsson observed.

"Most squads when they're ahead would slow the tempo, but Portugal seeks additional goals and he [Ronaldo] is a primary reason why this Portuguese side is such a distinctive attacking force."

Upon hearing this assessment, Ronaldo reflected: "To some extent I concur. I understand when I'm valuable, I recognize when I perform well and when I struggle. Game quality must always take precedence. These are merely words. My goal is for us to qualify."

World Cup History Inching Closer for Ronaldo

Despite reaching 40 years old in February, Ronaldo continues as a crucial player for his country, featuring in all eight matches during 2025. The Al Nassr striker has contributed five goals in the ongoing World Cup qualifying phase, adding to his record-setting 41 career goals in the tournament.

A significant milestone approaches on the horizon. Should Portugal beat Ireland and qualify, Ronaldo will secure his spot at a sixth World Cup. No male player has ever participated in football's premier competition more than five times.

The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star joins five other male players who have competed in five separate World Cup editions. Four of that elite group have hung up their boots, but Ronaldo's longtime rival Lionel Messi is also anticipated to reach his sixth World Cup this summer.

Most Appearances in Men's World Cup History

* Still active.