"The 40-year-old will lead his country out in their World Cup qualifier at the Aviva Stadium knowing a victory will secure qualification to next summer's tournament, which Ronaldo confirmed would be his last. For the hosts, meanwhile, a ticket to football's showpiece event is in the balance. Heimir Hallgrimsson's side go into the game knowing they must take something from it to keep their World Cup hopes alive."
"Last month, Hallgrimsson's men suffered late heartbreak in Lisbon, where a last-gasp winner from Ruben Neves saw Portugal take all three points after Caoimhin Kelleher had earlier saved Ronaldo's penalty. The Irish fans were further incensed after the Al-Nassr forward appeared to celebrate in the face of defender Jake O'Brien. And while he expects a hostile reception, Ronaldo said he will try to keep his emotions in check."
"I really like the fans here. The support they give to the national team, it's lovely. For me, it's a pleasure to come and play here again," Ronaldo said. "Of course, it will be tough. I hope they don't boo me too much tomorrow. I swear that I'm going to try to be a good boy. But of course, I do my job. I try to win the game and try to score to help my team. I'm sure that the game will be difficult."
Portugal can secure qualification for next summer's World Cup with victory over the Republic of Ireland in Dublin. Cristiano Ronaldo, 40, will captain Portugal and confirmed the tournament would be his last. The Republic of Ireland need to take something from the game to keep their hopes alive, currently third in Group F and one point behind Hungary with two games remaining. Ireland suffered late heartbreak in Lisbon when Ruben Neves scored a last-gasp winner after Caoimhin Kelleher saved Ronaldo's penalty. Ronaldo expects boos in Dublin but vows to control his emotions while trying to win and score.
Read at 101GREATGOALS.COM
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