Second only to Messi! Cristiano Ronaldo equals FIFA World Cup record in Portugal’s 0-0 draw with Colombia Football News
Cristiano Ronaldo achieved another major FIFA World Cup milestone on Saturday despite Portugal being held to a 0-0 draw by Colombia in their final Group K match. The result of this match was enough for both teams to advance to the round of 32, with Colombia advancing as group leader and Portugal as runner-up.The game also marked a historic personal achievement for the 41-year-old Portugal captain. Ronaldo participated in the World Cup for the 25th time, tying with German legend Lothar Matthäus to become the player with the second most appearances in World Cup history. Only Argentina captain Lionel Messi, who has played in 29 World Cup matches, has made more appearances on football’s biggest stage.As Ronaldo adds another milestone to his extraordinary career, he also extends an unusual record. The veteran striker has been flagged offside 11 times in the past two World Cups – four more than any other player in the same period. France’s Kylian Mbappe and Colombia’s Luis Diaz are second with seven offsides each.On the pitch, Portugal needed a win to secure top spot in Group K but struggled to break down Colombia’s tight defence. Throughout the game, Ronaldo remained Portugal’s main offensive threat, but it was difficult to get clear chances.Colombia started well and almost took the lead in the first minute when Cordoba headed over the crossbar before forcing a fine save from Portuguese goalkeeper Diogo Costa. Portugal gained more possession as the game progressed and Bruno Fernandez came closest to scoring in the first half, but was denied by Colombian goalkeeper Camilo Vargas.In the 90th minute, Davinson Sanchez scored and the South American team almost achieved a dramatic victory, but the goal was ruled out for offside. Despite a goalless draw between the two teams, Colombia secured the top spot in Group K, while Portugal also easily advanced to the knockout rounds.
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