Cristiano Ronaldo Melts Hearts With Gesture to Mascots in Portugal’s Win Against Iceland: Video

Cristiano Ronaldo Melts Hearts With Gesture to Mascots in Portugal’s Win Against Iceland: Video

Ero Samson
updated at February 13, 2024 at 11:54 AM
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  • Portugal hosted Iceland in their final match of the Euro 2024 qualifiers
  • The Portuguese squad coasted to a relatively easy victory on the night
  • Cristiano Ronaldo melted hearts with his gesture to the match mascots

'Emphatic' is the perfect term to characterise Portugal's Euro 2024 qualifying journey under coach, Roberto Martinez.

Since taking charge in January, the Portuguese manager has steered the team to an impeccable record of 10 victories in as many matches during the Euro qualifying series.

At the helm of this remarkable feat is the influential captain, Cristiano Ronaldo, whose impact has been pivotal in the coach's impressive debut.

Cristiano Ronaldo , Portugal
Cristiano Ronaldo waves at the supporters in the stands after the UEFA EURO 2024 qualifier match between Portugal and Iceland. Image: Carlos Rodrigues.
Source: Getty Images

In the lead-up to their final fixture against Iceland, Ronaldo - in what could be his last Euro qualifying match - took centre stage with a heartwarming gesture towards the matchday mascots.

As reported by Optus Sports, the forward dedicated time to acknowledge and salute all the mascots just before the action unfolded at the Estadio Jose Alvalade.

The match concluded with Portugal securing a 2-0 victory, with Bruno Fernandes scoring a brilliant goal from the edge of the box and Ronaldo providing an assist for Ricardo Horta to finish from close range.

However, it was a pre-game moment captured in the tunnel that drew widespread reactions on social media. The clip showcased the veteran's demeanour, adding another dimension to his on-field excellence.

Fans react to Ronaldo’s gesture

Fans flooded social media with praise for Ronaldo's act of kindness towards the mascots.

@jo_akawu stated:

"The GOAT for a reason."

@HarmlesObidient saluted him:

"My man, Cristiano Ronaldo."

@Emyjagz declared:

"Best of all best."

@ruthiessky posted:

"This is lovely from the GOAT."

@Schweiney3145 commented:

"The one true GOAT."

Whoscored reports that Ronaldo has been directly involved in 12 goals throughout the qualification campaign.

The former Real Madrid forward, who recently experienced disappointment with his national side at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, will hope he can seal another Euro crown for his nation in Germany.

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How Ronaldo reacted to Portugal's victory

Portugal secured a 2-0 victory against Iceland at home, concluding their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign with a flawless record of 10 consecutive wins in Group J.

Led by Ronaldo, the Selecao wrapped up their campaign with 30 points, a significant eight ahead of Slovakia, securing both teams' places in next year's finals in Germany.

Despite not scoring, Ronaldo expressed emotions on social media, celebrating Portugal's accomplishment of winning all their qualification matches, Sports Brief reported.

Authors
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Ero Samson
Samson Ero is a sports journalist with a track record of over five years in the Nigerian media industry. He graduated from Nigerian Institute of Journalism (2021-2023).
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