"We're going to do everything we can" - Bruno Fernandes sets next goal after winning UEFA Nations League with Cristiano Ronaldo

Bruno Fernandes has declared his next goal of leading Portugal to the 2026 FIFA World Cup after winning the UEFA Nations League with Cristiano Ronaldo. The duo played a key role in the Selecao's second triumph in the Nations League.

Portugal won their second UEFA Nations League title on Sunday, March 8, after beating Spain 5-3 on penalties. The full-time whistle saw both sides at 2-2, with Nuno Mendes (26') and Cristiano Ronaldo (61') scoring for the Selecao. Martin Zubimendi (21') and Mikel Oyarzabal (45') made it to the scoresheet for La Roja. Portugal emerged victorious after extra time and the penalty shootout. The title also marked Cristiano Ronaldo's second Nations League trophy after his victory in 2019's inaugural edition.

In the post-match press conference, Ronaldo's longtime teammate Bruno Fernandes opened up about Portugal's next goal as a team. He said (via Tribal Football):

"We want to be at the World Cup and try to win another competition. Portugal don't enter anything to lose. But first we have qualification ahead of us and we're going to do everything we can to win, put on a show and make the Portuguese more and more proud of us."

Portugal are yet to win the FIFA World Cup in their history. Cristiano Ronaldo has represented the Selecao in five World Cups, while Bruno Fernandes has been a part of the squad for the last two editions of the tournament. The 2026 edition could be Ronaldo's final chance of winning the World Cup with Portugal, having already hit 40. The Selecao are already among the top contenders to win the World Cup, especially due to their current form and latest Nations League triumph.

Cristiano Ronaldo reflects on Portugal's UEFA Nations League victory alongside Bruno Fernandes

In a post-match interview with SPORT TV, Cristiano Ronaldo opened up about winning the UEFA Nations League with Portugal. He said (via The Mirror):

"I am so happy. First place for this generation, which deserved a title of this magnitude, for our families. My children came here, my wife, my brother, my friends. Winning for Portugal is always special. I have many titles with my clubs, but there is nothing better than winning for Portugal. It brings tears to my eyes. It is a duty fulfilled and a lot of joy."

Ronaldo also spoke about leading the current generation with the likes of Bruno Fernandes and added:

"It’s beautiful. It’s our nation. We are a small people, but with great ambition. It makes me happy. I’ve lived in many countries, I’ve played for many clubs, but when people talk about Portugal, it’s always a special feeling. Being the captain of this generation, it’s a source of pride."

Cristiano Ronaldo made nine appearances in the UEFA Nations League this season, recording eight goals and one assist. The trophy marked his third international trophy with Portugal after the 2016 Euros and the 2019 Nations League.

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Pratyasha is a Pop Culture and a European Football writer for Sportskeeda. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature, and has over 3 years of experience in the pop culture industry. Throughout her career, Pratyasha has always emphasized detailed background checks, and believes in verifying all information regardless of how correct it may seem.

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Edited by Pratyasha Sarkar