FIFA World Cup title still eludes CR7
Five Champions League trophies, three Premier League titles, two La Liga crowns, five Ballon d'Ors and the Euro 2016. Cristiano Ronaldo has won nearly everything, except the World Cup. No matter how much he tries, the 'Golden Cup' still remains elusive. This edition, CR7 will be desperate to get his hands on it and cement his name as one of the greatest-of-all-time.
Numero uno: Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo is already his country's record-holder for the most number of goals and appearances, 81 goals in 150 appearances. He is also their captain, who will be eager to lead from the front. After a disappointing 2014 World Cup campaign, Ronaldo and company have bounced back in style. They will be looking to win Portugal their first ever World Cup.
Ronaldo could join the list of elite men
It is not only about guiding Portugal to their first World Cup title; there is much more motivation for record hungry Ronaldo in Russia. He could join the list of elite players such as Bobby Charlton, Zidane, Kaka, Ronaldinho, Paolo Rossi, Muller, Franz Beckenbauer and Rivaldo. These players have won the World Cup, the Champions League and a Ballon d'Or.
Needs a World Cup trophy to join Pele's league
Ronaldo wants to retire as the greatest player of all time. He has already established himself as Portugal's most celebrated player. However, if he wants to be in the same league as Pele, he needs a World Cup title under his belt. Pele is regarded as the greatest of all time. He won three World Cups in 1958, 1962 and 1970.
Ronaldo needs to find his mojo at the World Cup
When it comes to the grand stage, Ronaldo lacks the killer instinct. The hitman has featured in three World Cups. In these 3 editions, he has found the back of the net on three occasions while setting his team-mates up twice in his 13 matches. He made his World Cup debut as a 21-year-old alongside Figo, and that remains his best campaign to date.
No more shouldering the burden
For a very long time, Portugal didn't have quality players in their ranks. Since the retirement of Figo and Deco, Ronaldo had to carry the burden of taking his side through. However, this term the likes of Bernado Silva, Goncalo Guedes and Andres Silva are playing beside Ronaldo. The prospects look bright for Portugal if things turn out as per the plan.
Is this Ronaldo's last chance to win the World Cup?
Time is running out for Ronaldo, and the 2018 tournament looks like his last. We are not ruling out the possibility of seeing him in the 2022 edition in Qatar, but he will be 37 then. Having won the Euro 2016 last time around, Ronaldo and Portugal will be looking to add the precious Golden Trophy to their cabinets.