Cristiano Ronaldo in his ‘rightful place’

Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates the win on Tuesday. Pic/Getty Images

Cristiano Ronaldo is assured of playing in his fifth World Cup at Qatar 2022 after Portugal beat North Macedonia 2-0 in the play-off finals on Tuesday to book their place at football's quadrennial showpiece event (November 21 to December 18).

Bruno Fernandes scored both goals against the Balkan nation, ranked 67th in the world. Ronaldo took to social media to express his joy moments after the win. "Goal achieved. We're at the Qatar World Cup. We're in our rightful place! Thank you to all the Portuguese people for the tireless support! Power Portugal!," he wrote to his 419 million Instagram followers. "The years pass, but the goal always remains the same," Ronaldo wrote in a second message with a picture of himself alongside another Portuguese veteran, Pepe. Both posts received over 70 lakh ‘likes'.

North Macedonia stunned European champions Italy in the play-off semi-final on Friday, and began dreaming of their first ever appearance at a World Cup finals. But Portugal were two good. Portugal's first chance came in the 14th minute when Diogo Jota threaded Ronaldo through and the striker fired his left-footer wide of the far post. But it was Ronaldo who set up the opening goal.

In the 32nd minute, Ronaldo received the ball at the edge of the circle, but instead of shooting, made an unselfish pass to Fernandes, who drove in. Fernandes then put the victory beyond doubt in the second half (65th minute), connecting with a sublime cross from Jota. Portugal coach Santos was proud of his team. "I would like to congratulate the players for their attitude and their quality. We controlled the match in a very clear way. Now, having already won the Euro and the Nations League we have a dream of bringing enormous joy to Portugal," said Santos.

Ronaldo's World Cup run in numbers

17
Number of matches he has played

07
No. of goals he has scored across four World Cups

04
No. of goals he scored at Russia 2018

01
No. of hat-tricks he bagged, against Spain at Russia 2018

06
No. of matches Portugal have won with him in the team

With inputs from AFP