Ronaldo’s son makes Portugal Under-17 bow as late chance draws attention

Cristiano Ronaldo Jr made his Portugal Under-17 debut in a 4-0 win over Andorra in European Under-17 Championship qualifying, with the Al Nassr academy player coming close to scoring a memorable goal.

Ronaldo Jr did not start the match and wore number 18 rather than the number seven his father had used for Portugal at the same age. He was introduced in the 73rd minute, when the Portugal coach changed the shape of the side to play with two forwards.

The 16-year-old’s appearance was watched closely from the Portugal senior team’s training base in Oeiras. Vitinha, Barcelona defender Joao Cancelo, Joao Felix and Joao Neves were among those who followed the match.

Ronaldo Jr’s height and slender frame stood out, despite his need for further physical development at this stage of his career. His stature also gives him a potential advantage when competing for high balls.

His best opportunity came in the 86th minute, with Portugal already leading 4-0. A cross from the left reached him inside the penalty area, where he had two defenders close by.

He adjusted his head to try to direct the ball towards goal, but it passed narrowly wide of the post. Portugal’s substitutes briefly celebrated, believing the attempt had gone in.

Diego Farinha had scored twice for Portugal, who completed a comfortable victory against Andorra.

Spanish newspaper AS wrote: “There is nothing in Cristiano Jr’s style of play to suggest he is a version of his father Cristiano Ronaldo, but his career continues to move in the right direction.”

The match produced limited involvement for Ronaldo Jr beyond his late cameo, but his every step continues to attract attention because of his family name and his progress through football.

He is following a path similar to his father by representing Portugal at youth level, although his first appearance for the Under-17 side came without the number seven shirt or a place in the starting line-up.