In a career defined by records and silverware, Cristiano Ronaldo‘s achievements with Portugal stand as a powerful chapter in his legacy. From early heartbreaks to historic triumphs, the journey has been anything but ordinary for the icon.
Portugal’s rise on the international stage coincided with CR7’s evolution from teenage prodigy to global soccer phenomenon. Over the years, he has led the Seleção through dramatic finals, decisive goals and unforgettable celebrations.
With every tournament, his hunger for glory never faded. The number of trophies he’s lifted might surprise those who only recall the heartbreaks — because somewhere between near-misses and fairy-tale endings, history was written.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s international trophies with Portugal
Cristiano Ronaldo has won three major international trophies with Portugal, marking the most glorious chapter in the history of the national team. His triumphs at UEFA Euro 2016, UEFA Nations League 2019, and UEFA Nations League 2025 cemented his legacy as a generational leader on and off the pitch.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal applauds the fans after the UEFA EURO 2024 European qualifier match between Portugal and Slovakia at Estadio do Dragao on October 13, 2023. (Source: Octavio Passos/Getty Images)
Together, these triumphs highlight CR7’s enduring influence and leadership on the international stage. From tears of pain in Paris to roaring celebrations in Porto, each moment has become part of Portuguese soccer folklore.
UEFA Euro 2016
The UEFA Euro 2016 marked a turning point for Portuguese soccer. After years of falling short—including a heartbreaking loss in the Euro 2004 final—Portugal finally reached the summit in France.
The road to the final was far from easy. They only scraped through the group stage with three draws, but found rhythm in the knockout rounds. CR7 was instrumental throughout, scoring crucial goals including a stunning header against Wales in the semi-final.
The final, played on July 10, 2016, pitted Portugal against host nation France at the Stade de France. In a dramatic twist, he was forced to leave the pitch in tears in the 25th minute due to a knee injury caused by a collision with Dimitri Payet. However, his presence remained impactful as he took on an emotional sideline role, urging his teammates on from the technical area.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal lifts the Henri Delaunay trophy after his side win 1-0 against France during the UEFA EURO 2016 Final match between Portugal and France. (Source: Matthias Hangst/Getty Images)
In extra time, substitute Éder became an unlikely hero, scoring a powerful long-range goal in the 109th minute. The national team held on for a 1-0 victory, and despite his early exit, he lifted the trophy as captain—a moment that symbolized both personal and national redemption.
UEFA Nations League 2019
Three years after their European triumph, Portugal hosted the inaugural UEFA Nations League Finals in June 2019. Once again, the team delivered under pressure, with CR7 proving he still had plenty to offer on the international stage.
In the semi-final against Switzerland, Cristiano Ronaldo delivered a vintage performance. He scored a stunning hat-trick—including a trademark free kick and two late goals—to send the team to the final.
On June 9, 2019, Portugal faced the Netherlands at Porto’s Estádio do Dragão. The final wasn’t as explosive as previous matches, but they displayed tactical discipline and defensive solidity. Midfielder Gonçalo Guedes scored the only goal of the match with a fierce strike from the edge of the box.
With a 1-0 win, Portugal became the first-ever UEFA Nations League champions, adding a second international trophy to his collection and reinforcing their position among Europe’s elite.
UEFA Nations League 2025
The 2025 UEFA Nations League saw Cristiano Ronaldo defy Father Time once again. At 40, the veteran striker became the oldest scorer in tournament history with his equalizer vs Spain in the final.
With that goal, Ronaldo helped Portugal force extra time. Unfortunately, CR7 had to leave the field with a muscle injury before the end of regulation. But just like in Euro 2016, he got to celebrate as his teammates got the job done on penalties.
