Cristiano Ronaldo’s presence in the spotlight continues with a potential appearance at Euro 2024. The 39-year-old Al Nassr striker is part of Portugal’s 26-man squad heading to Germany this summer. 

The former Real Madrid attacker was crucial to Portugal’s Euro 2016 win. He also played a vital role in ensuring A Seleção qualified for this competition this year. Given their recent performances, most Euro predictions consider Portugal favorites to win this competition. Can Ronaldo add another title to his trophy cabinet in what seems to be his last major international competition? 

Our guide discusses this question in great detail. Additionally, we will consider the strengths of the Portuguese national team and discuss their chances for a second Euros trophy. If you are interested in staying ahead of the curve on UEFA Euro betting trends, check out the EaglePredict website.

Ronaldo Euros Record

Since making his international debut in 2003, CR7 has been excellent for his country. He made his Euros debut at the 2004 tournament when his country hosted the tournament. He scored his first goal in the Euros, grabbing a consolation goal in a 2:1 defeat to Greece.

Since then, Ronaldo has appeared in five Euros. Bar any last-minute changes, this tournament will be his sixth appearance in this competition. So far, he has scored 14 goals across five Euro tournaments. 

At Euro 2204, he hit the net twice and followed up with one goal in Euro 2008. He grabbed three goals in 2012 and 2016 and finished joint-top scorer with five goals at Euro 2020. Currently, CR7 is the only male player with three or more goals across three European Championships. 

In addition to that, he also holds the record for most goal attempts at the European Championships. So far, he has 137 attempts on goal, a record which significantly beats Thierry Henry’s 52 goal attempts. Other players on this list include Dutch striker Dennis Bergkamp and French midfield maestro Zinedine Zidane. Both players have managed 48 goal attempts at the Euros.

Ronaldo will seek to extend both records at this tournament. At 39, that may seem challenging, but Ronaldo’s scoring record for Al Nassr has been exceptional. So far, he has hit 64 goals in 69 games for the Saudi Arabian side in all competitions.

Apart from his goal-scoring record, CR7 is always available for selection. The Al Nassr man is almost always available in this competition. His only notable absence came at the Euro 2016 final, which he missed due to injury. He was also rested for the final group game at Euro 2008. Except for both games, he has appeared in 25 European Championship games.

Portugal Team Analysis

Despite being his country’s star, Ronaldo will need the support of his national teammates to secure a second European title. Portugal’s current squad is not viewed as the top favorite, but they possess enough firepower to win this tournament.

Under Coach Fernando Santos, the team was known for defensive pragmatism. However, that has changed with the appointment of Robert Martinez. Portugal has transformed into a strong attacking team with solid options in midfield and attack.

Their switch to a more attacking brand of football does not reduce their defensive abilities. They still possess a strong defense with several stars with years of experience winning at the highest level. 

Defense

Porto’s Diogo Costa is expected to start in goal after another impressive season in Primeira Liga. Man City Ruben Dias is expected to pair Benfica man Antonio Silva in the heart of the defense.

Sporting’s Goncalo Inacio, Danilo Pereira, and former Madrid player Pepe are also part of Portugal’s options at center-back. Like Ronaldo, Pepe continues to perform at the top level despite being 40 years old. His experience will be crucial for A Seleção. Nuno Mendes, Diogo Dalot, Nelson Semedo, and Joao Cancelo will fight for the full-back positions.

Midfield

A Seleção has a very solid midfield which features a blend of technical and physical players. Fulham’s Joao Palhinha provides a strong physical presence in midfield. He should start at the base of the midfield with Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva joining him. Benfica’s Joao Neves has been exceptional in recent games. 

Despite being 5 ft 9, the 19-year-old midfielder is seriously knocking on the door for a start in this competition. However, given his lack of experience at this level, we don’t expect him to grab a starting spot in midfield. Coach Martinez can also mix things up by introducing Ruben Neves, Vitinha, and Matheus Nunes in midfield. 

Attack

Portugal’s attacking creativity will be a nightmare for their opponents in Germany. In addition to CR7, this team boasts excellent wingers like Rafael Leao, Diogo Jota, Pedro Neto, Francisco Conceicao, and Joao Felix. 

These players possess exceptional dribbling skills and the versatility to play across the front line. With Gonçalo Ramos providing a focal point in attack, Portugal’s attacking options are truly frightening for any defense. A Seleção unpredictability in attack has been evident in the build-up to the 2024 European Championships. They scored 36 goals in the qualifiers, winning all of their group games.

Conclusion

As Ronaldo enters what is most likely the last chapter of his international career, he will be keen to go out with another win. The Portuguese attacker is part of a solid team that can go all the way in Germany. With positive performances in their first three group games, they could grab a second European Championship this summer.