Every Portugal player will wear Cristiano Ronaldo’s number 7 jersey onto the pitch against Denmark in Braga on Saturday, honoring the 41-year-old forward who ended his international career two weeks ago, Maisfutebol reported.
The squad’s leadership group, technical staff, and federation directors agreed on the gesture during a meeting ahead of the Nations League fixture, according to Maisfutebol. Team captains Bernardo Silva, João Cancelo, Rúben Dias, and Bruno Fernandes helped finalize the decision to retire the iconic shirt number for the opening moments in honor of the country’s all-time leading scorer.
Organizers are also encouraging fans at the stadium to applaud Ronaldo at the seventh minute, though that plan depends entirely on crowd participation, as reported by Maisfutebol. The Portuguese Football Federation is actively urging supporters in the stands to join the synchronized stadium tribute.
Portugal seeks to secure top group position
Portugal enters Saturday’s encounter needing just a single point to secure first place in Group A4 of the UEFA Nations League. Kickoff at the venue in Braga is scheduled for 19.45 local time.
Ronaldo finished his remarkable run with the national team accumulating 146 goals across 234 official appearances. The veteran forward announced his international retirement two weeks prior, closing a chapter that spanned more than two decades of representing his country.
Frequently asked questions about the tribute
Why are Portugal players wearing the number 7?
The entire squad will wear Cristiano Ronaldo’s number 7 shirt when stepping onto the pitch to honor his international retirement after 234 matches and 146 goals for the national team.
What does Portugal need against Denmark?
Portugal requires only one point from Saturday’s fixture in Braga to lock down first place in Group A4 of the UEFA Nations League.
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