Ronaldo Receives Guinness World Records Award after 200th Cap for Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo has received the Guinness World Records certificate after he became the first male player to make 200 international appearances.

The Portugal star marked the milestone by scoring the winning goal in the 89th minute as Portugal pip Iceland 1-0 on Tuesday in the European Championships qualifying.

Before the kick-off, Ronaldo was honored by Guinness World Records for reaching 200 games for Portugal almost 20 years after his debut for the national team.

Receiving the award, Ronaldo said, “Triumph with a special flavor. Not only for the day it was, for the tribute, for the 200th game… To top it off with a goal, I can’t ask for more. It was spectacular, unforgettable, for everything it generated around the game. I have to thank the Icelanders, and the federation for the surprise. And to Guinness World Records.”

The record is yet another addition to Ronaldo’s long list of accomplishments in international football. 

The Al Nassr frontman is the all-time top goalscorer in international football with 123 goals in 200 games to date. 

“I’m always nervous for Portugal’

Before the game, the Portugal Captain said he is always nervous when he wears the national team’s jersey.

“I’m always nervous about the national team. With the anthem, I’m always nervous, it’s good. It’s a sign of responsibility, pride, motivation; representing the national team is the height of the career.

“Representing family, parents, friends … If I hope to do more. Obviously, that is why I’m here. That is why I keep on walking.

“Living the moment, day by day, seeing my form, I think I’m still doing well, helping, scoring goals and good performances. As long as I’m motivated and everyone else, if those by my side like my presence and leadership, I will not give up the selection in any way. As Bruno Alves said, I will not give away my place for free. Feeling like an asset is pride and motivation. What I want most is to help Portugal.”