Ronaldo starts for Portugal against Wales chasing 1,000th career goal

Cristiano Ronaldo will start Portugal's UEFA Nations League opener against Wales on Thursday in Lisbon, as the 41-year-old pursues his 1,000th career goal. Coach Jorge Jesus confirmed Ronaldo's selection for the match, which marks the player's 234th international appearance. Jesus emphasized that Ronaldo does not have an automatic place in every fixture, stating "Cris is a symbol of Portugal, but that does not give him the right to play every match."

Ronaldo acknowledged Wednesday that he considered retiring from international football after Portugal's World Cup elimination in July but decided to continue after discussions with Portugal's president and Jesus. He said he will finish his international career when "I feel like I'm not doing anything here." The forward, who currently has 979 career goals, needs 21 more to reach the 1,000-goal milestone.

The 41-year-old also addressed domestic criticism, noting that some Portuguese media outlets and commentators have called for his exclusion from the team. "I feel the Portuguese fans like me, but I do understand that some TV channels want to criticize me," Ronaldo said. "They are dying for me not to come to the national team any more, but I can still move away from it." He emphasized that his primary motivations are helping the national team succeed and supporting Portugal's younger generation of players.

Ronaldo, who plays for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, said he remains committed to both personal and team objectives. He is a two-time Nations League winner with Portugal and stated that adding a third title is among his aims alongside reaching 1,000 goals. Jesus previously led Al-Nassr to the Saudi league title in May before taking the Portugal job. The match against Wales kicks off Thursday at 19:45 BST at Estádio José Alvalade in Lisbon.