Achraf Hakimi salutes Cristiano Ronaldo after Portugal great ends international career

Achraf Hakimi has paid tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo after the Portugal captain announced his retirement from international football, recalling the World Cup meeting that brought the two players together in 2018.

The Morocco and Paris Saint-Germain defender shared a photograph of himself with Ronaldo on Instagram. The image was taken during Morocco’s group-stage match against Portugal at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

Hakimi wrote in English: “Thank you for everything Cristiano, a legend who will remain forever in the history of football.”

The photograph comes from the second round of the group stage, when Portugal beat Morocco 1-0. Ronaldo scored the only goal of the game with a fourth-minute header, giving Portugal three important points.

The defeat was Morocco’s second in succession at the tournament and ended their hopes of progressing. Hakimi started for Morocco in one of his first appearances on the world stage, while Ronaldo was leading Portugal at his fourth World Cup.

A 23-year international career

Ronaldo, who is 41, has brought his Portugal career to a close after beginning it in August 2003. He made 234 international appearances and scored 146 goals, records that make him the leading men’s international appearance-maker and goalscorer in football history.

During his time with Portugal, Ronaldo helped the team win the 2016 European Championship. He also lifted the Nations League trophy in 2019 and 2025.

He became the first player to score at six different World Cups, adding another landmark to a career that has included more than two decades at the highest level.

Ronaldo’s decision applies only to international football and does not represent an end to his playing career. He will continue to play club football with Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr.

The announcement closes an era for Portugal, with Ronaldo leaving behind a series of records and major international honours.

Morocco are scheduled to face Niger in African Cup of Nations qualifying on 13 November 2026. Portugal are due to play Denmark in the Nations League – Path One on 14 November 2026.