Cristiano Ronaldo played in his sixth and final World Cup yesterday. Photo: Omar Vega/Getty Images
Cristiano Ronaldo arrived at Dallas Stadium clapping and smiling yesterday. Portugal's elimination from the World Cup left him stoic and tearful.
Why it matters: The loss to Spain began a new chapter in the 41-year-old Ronaldo's career. He had previously said this would be his last World Cup.
What they're saying: "I have given my best ... I leave with a calm conscience and that's it. Tomorrow is a new day and life continues," Ronaldo told reporters after the match.
Stunning stat: Over 70,000 fans packed the stadium to see the highly anticipated matchup between Portugal and Spain. A trumpet serenaded the crowd of red jerseys.
12-year-old Victoria Palomera and her mom traveled from Orange County, Calif., to watch Portugal play. She said the match elicited mixed emotions — gratitude to be able to see Ronaldo in person and sadness to see him move on from the national team.
"He wasn't born with money. He built it up in the ranks to come this far and become captain of the Portugal national team — he's not just talented, he's really hard working," said Palomera, who plays competitive soccer.
What's next: North Texas has one more World Cup match left to host, a semifinal next Tuesday.
