Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football , bringing an end to a record-breaking 23-year career with Portugal. The 41-year-old forward confirmed his decision on Thursday, retiring as men’s international football’s most-capped player (234 appearances) and all-time leading goalscorer (146 goals).

Ronaldo made his senior debut for Portugal at the age of 18 in a 1-0 friendly win against Kazakhstan.

He scored his first international goal in a 2-1 loss against Greece in the opening match of Euro 2004. The date also marked his first appearance at a major senior tournament.

At his first World Cup in Germany, Ronaldo scored his first World Cup goal by converting a penalty in Portugal’s 2-0 win over Iran.

February 6, 2007: First match as captain

Ronaldo made his debut as Portugal captain in a friendly against Brazil.

October 16, 2012: 100th cap

He earned his 100th cap for Portugal in a 1-1 draw with Northern Ireland in a World Cup qualifier.

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