Cristiano Ronaldo Defends Outburst After Disallowed Goal

Cristiano Ronaldo was denied a last-gasp winner in Belgrade on Saturday and booked for dissent before storming off the pitch as referee apologizes for error

Cristiano Ronaldo said he will “never change” following his angry outburst after the Portugal captain was denied a dramatic late winner in contentious circumstances against Serbia.

Ronaldo was convinced his last-gasp effort crossed the line, but the officials gave the all clear as 10-man Serbia rallied from two goals down to secure a 2-2 draw in World Cup qualifying on Saturday.

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Stefan Mitrovic made back-to-back goal-line clearances to thwart Portugal in stoppage time, though Ronaldo was left fuming as the superstar was adamant his effort crossed line in Belgrade, where there was no VAR in place to review the decision.

Ronaldo was booked for his protestations before he angrily threw his captain’s armband on the floor and walked off the field with just seconds remaining.

Afterwards, Ronaldo used Instagram and social media to discuss the controversial incident away to Serbia in the Group A showdown.

“Being captain of the Portugal team is one of the greatest pride and privileges of my life,” Ronaldo wrote. “I always give and will give everything for my country, that will never change.

“But there are difficult times to deal with, especially when we feel that an entire nation is being punished. Lift your head and face the next challenge now! Come on, Portugal!”

Portugal head coach Fernando Santos revealed “embarrassed” referee Danny Makkelie apologised post-match in the Serbian capital.