Following in Father’s Footsteps: Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. Earns First U16 Cap
ANTALYA, Turkey (ATP): Cristiano Ronaldo Jr., the 15-year-old son of Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo, made his debut for the Portugal Under-16 national team on Thursday, featuring in a 2-0 victory over hosts Turkey in the Federation Cup tournament in Antalya.
The teenager entered the match during stoppage time, marking a significant milestone in his emerging football career. Goals from Samuel Tavares of Sporting CP and Rafael Cabral of SC Braga secured the win, giving Portugal a strong start in the group stage.
Ronaldo Jr.’s appearance highlights his swift progression through Portugal’s national youth system. He has been developing his skills at the Al Nassr youth academy in Saudi Arabia, where his father currently plays professionally. The young forward has previously showcased his talent on the international stage, notably scoring twice in a 3-2 triumph over Croatia in the final of the Vlatko Markovic International Tournament. Having also played for Portugal’s U15 side, his call-up to the U16 squad confirms the attention he is drawing for his technical ability and maturity.
His debut for the U16 team sees him directly following the international pathway forged by his five-time Ballon d’Or-winning father, Cristiano Ronaldo Sr.
The milestone comes just days after his father celebrated reaching 950 career goals and extended his record as the top scorer in men’s international football.
Football fans worldwide are already comparing the father and son, with high hopes that Ronaldo Jr. could one day emulate his father’s legendary success on the international stage.
Portugal, who kicked off their campaign against Turkey on October 30, will next face Wales on November 1, followed by a clash with England on November 4.
