Ronaldo Sets Record With Sixth European Championship Appearance

Cristiano Ronaldo made history on Tuesday by becoming the first player to participate in six different editions of the European Championship. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner was included in Roberto Martinez's starting XI as Portugal began their Euro 2024 campaign against Czechia in Leipzig.

Ronaldo, who debuted at the Euros in 2004, is now the first to achieve six tournament appearances in UEFA's 64-year history. Additionally, he equalled the record for the most consecutive European Championship appearances for a nation, having played in all 18 of Portugal's matches since the Euro 2008 quarter-final. Only Italy's Leonardo Bonucci, who played between 2012 and 2021, matches this record.

Ronaldo's scoring record at the European Championship is unmatched. Since 1972, he has contributed to 20 goals at the Euros (14 goals and six assists), more than double any other player. France's Michel Platini is second with 10 contributions (nine goals and one assist).

Another Portugal player, veteran centre-back Pepe, also made history during the match. Pepe became only the second player to appear in as many as 20 games at the European Championship finals, following Ronaldo who has appeared in 26 games.

Pepe and Ronaldo are also the oldest players to feature in this competition's finals. Pepe is aged 41 years and 113 days, while Ronaldo is 39 years and 134 days old. They are also the oldest two outfielders to play at this level.

The match against Czechia marked a significant milestone for both players and highlighted their enduring contributions to Portuguese football on the European stage.