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Schmeichel: Ronaldo's Retirement Will Be Difficult

Former Denmark goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel has suggested it will be 'really difficult' for Cristiano Ronaldo to come to terms with retirement following Portugal's elimination from the 2026 World Cup.

Schmeichel, who understands the mental challenges of international competition, commented on Ronaldo's mentality after Portugal's defeat to Spain in the round of 16. 'I know exactly what he's feeling right now,' Schmeichel said. 'Even at his age, his mentality is the next one. Wants to win, wants to keep going, wants to prove that he still is the best.'

The 41-year-old Ronaldo, who has scored 976 career goals across 1,326 games, announced this was his 'last' World Cup but remains undecided about his future in football. Having played in six World Cups for Portugal without winning the tournament, Schmeichel believes the realization that he won't compete in another World Cup will be particularly difficult for Ronaldo to accept. turconews.click