“I’m Always Nervous”: Cristiano Ronaldo Makes Honest Portugal Confession Ahead of Iceland Game

• Cristiano Ronaldo has shared insight into his feelings when he represents Portugal
• The veteran has the most appearances in the history of men’s international football
• His Portugal side are on a three-game winning run in the UEFA Euro 2024 Qualifiers

Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed that he still experiences nervousness when he wears the jersey of the Portuguese national team, in a candid confession.

Despite being the leading top scorer (122 goals) for his country by a significant margin, the Al-Nassr superstar openly admitted his feelings ahead of his upcoming 200th cap for the Selecao against Iceland on June 20.

Providing clarity on why he experiences nervousness when playing for Portugal, the former Manchester United and Real Madrid ace explained, via Record - as quoted by Daily Post:

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

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The 38-year-old continued: "Representing family, parents, friends… If I hope to do more. Obviously, that is why I’m here. That is why I keep on walking."

Ronaldo, who is in no rush to call time on his international career, highlighted his contribution to the national team while revealing what could prolong his Portugal career.

"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."

The veteran added that feeling like an asset was a source of pride and motivation for him.

"As Bruno Alves said, I will not give away my place for free... What I want most is to help Portugal."

If Ronaldo takes the field against Iceland, this will establish him as the first men's player in international football history to reach the incredible achievement of earning 200 appearances for his country, per Transfermarkt.

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Ronaldo's pitch invader gesture

Sports Brief also reported that Ronaldo melted football fans' hearts with his heartwarming gesture during Portugal's Euro 2024 Qualifiers against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Ronaldo, who is on the precipice of international history, was making his 199th cap for Portugal as Roberto Martinez sought to continue his perfect start to life as Selecao manager.

A pitch invader, wielding a Portuguese flag, hugged the 38-year-old before paying homage on his knees, before litfing Ronaldo and performing his trademark 'Siuuu' celebration.