Ronaldo and his new friend
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Reading Time: 2min | Mon. 08.09.25. | 11:15
The Portuguese superstar was delighted by the young boy’s behavior as he walked out onto the pitch with him, and later shared the moment on social media
Cristiano Ronaldo took a touching moment off the pitch to connect with a young mascot who walked out alongside him during Portugal’s World Cup qualifier on Saturday evening.
Portugal, the Nations League holders, opened their Group F campaign in style with a commanding 5-0 win over Armenia. Ronaldo, now 40, struck twice — first with a simple finish from close range, then with a trademark thunderbolt from distance that marked his 140th international goal.
It’s 2025 and Messi and Ronaldo are still scoring better goals than the new generation pic.twitter.com/9HufhVc5kb
— Ped (@PedTalksSports) September 6, 2025
But the most emotional moment came before kick-off. The child mascot accompanying the Portuguese captain was overcome with tears, only to be comforted by Ronaldo himself. The forward shared the clip afterwards, showing him laughing with the boy and offering a warm embrace.
He wrote: "I made a new friend yesterday. Grateful for the love and support every single day and I hope everyone gets to follow their dreams."
I made a new friend yesterday 😁 Grateful for the love and support every single day and I hope everyone gets to follow their dreams! pic.twitter.com/0fgCYdz9wA
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) September 7, 2025
Ronaldo, taking part in his sixth World Cup qualifying cycle, continues to set records — he has now scored in every one of the 23 seasons he has represented Portugal. His second strike against Armenia was a rocket from 25 yards out, extending his tally to 10 goals in his last 10 competitive appearances for the national team.
