Sports

IIE DIGITAL DESK : The proud moment for football legend Cristiano Ronaldo, his son Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. donned the national jersey for the first time, marking his debut for the Portugal Under-15 team. The occasion was made even more special as the young Portuguese side clinched a convincing victory over Japan in a thrilling international youth friendly match.

The match, held at a youth football tournament in Europe, saw the young Seleção put up a commanding performance, defeating their Japanese counterparts with a scoreline of 4-2. All eyes, however, were on Ronaldo Jr., who has been steadily rising through the ranks of youth football with impressive performances for academy sides, most notably during his stint with Manchester United and later with Al-Nassr's youth team in Saudi Arabia, where his father currently plays professionally.

Ronaldo Jr., now 14, took to the field wearing the iconic red and green colors that his father has proudly represented for over two decades. While the junior Ronaldo did not score in his debut, he showed glimpses of his potential, demonstrating confident ball control, intelligent positioning, and a hunger to contribute to the team. He played approximately 60 minutes before being substituted, receiving a warm round of applause from the crowd and the coaching staff.

The Portuguese U-15 team dominated much of the match, showcasing a blend of technical finesse and tactical awareness. Their swift counterattacks and solid defense kept Japan on the back foot, though the Japanese youngsters did manage to find the back of the net twice, showing great spirit. Portugal’s goals came through a mix of set pieces and brilliant attacking play, reflecting the depth of talent in the country’s youth development system.

Cristiano Ronaldo, currently with Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, was reportedly unable to attend the match due to club commitments, but sources close to the family say he watched the game via livestream and was visibly emotional. He later posted a congratulatory message on social media, saying, “Proud doesn’t even begin to describe it. Well done, my son! This is just the beginning.”

Football pundits and fans alike have been watching Ronaldo Jr.’s journey closely, often comparing his playing style to his father's. Though it’s early days, many believe he has the discipline and flair to carve his own legacy, free from the shadow of one of the game’s greatest icons.

The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) also praised the young player’s debut, highlighting the importance of nurturing young talent while acknowledging the attention surrounding Ronaldo Jr.’s inclusion in the squad. “He is a promising young athlete, and we will support his growth like we do with all our players,” said an FPF spokesperson.

As Portugal continues to invest heavily in youth development, the next generation of stars is beginning to shine—among them, a young Ronaldo whose journey is just beginning. For Cristiano Ronaldo Jr., this debut marks not just a personal milestone, but the first chapter in what could be a remarkable international career.