As Euro 2024 nears its knockout stage, Cristiano Ronaldo stands as a living legend, undiminished by age at 39, poised to make his mark yet again. His career boasts spectacular highlights, from propelling Portugal to Euro 2016 triumph to claiming joint-top scorer honors at Euro 2020, despite their early exit in the Round of 16.
Ronaldo’s prowess as a goal machine on the international stage is unparalleled, holding the all-time men’s record with an astonishing 130 goals. His journey to Euro 2024 saw him net 10 goals in nine qualifying matches, leaving no doubt about his enduring impact.
As the competition heats up, The Sporting News dives into Ronaldo’s storied history against the teams of Group F, who will attempt to contain his unmatched scoring prowess.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s record against Czechia
Czech fans were eager to break a daunting pattern when it came to encountering Cristiano Ronaldo at European Championships. Their national team had crossed paths with Portugal at Euro 2008 and Euro 2012, suffering defeats in both encounters, with Ronaldo delivering goals each time. In their most recent clashes during the 2022/23 Nations League, Czechia faced Portugal twice more, experiencing losses on both occasions, although Ronaldo remained scoreless.
The match marked a showdown between the joint-top scorers of Euro 2020, as Ronaldo and Patrik Schick had each tallied five goals. However, in their latest meeting at Portugal’s 2-1 victory, neither star managed to find the back of the net.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s record against Turkey
Turkey stands out as one of the rare international opponents to have faced Cristiano Ronaldo without conceding to his goal-scoring prowess. Despite a mixed record against Portugal, Turkey managed to keep Ronaldo off the score sheet in all four encounters.
Their initial meetings were at Euro 2008, where Turkey fell 2-0 to Portugal, and a decade later during World Cup qualifying, ending in a 3-1 defeat, with Ronaldo unable to score in either match. A June 2012 friendly saw Turkey triumph 3-1, again holding Ronaldo at bay.
In their fourth clash, although Turkey suffered another defeat, Ronaldo once more failed to score against them. However, he did achieve a significant milestone during Euro 2024 by registering his record seventh assist in a European Championship match.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s record against Georgia
Portugal’s upcoming group in Euro 2024 will be rounded out by Georgia, the victors of playoff path C.
In a friendly match before Euro 2008, Cristiano Ronaldo had a brief encounter with Georgia, playing a scoreless 45 minutes. This remains his sole experience facing this particular opponent.
As they prepare to clash in the upcoming tournament, Ronaldo will undoubtedly aim to leave his mark against this unfamiliar adversary. Georgia, making their debut in a major tournament, will also look to make a memorable impression on the Euro stage.
