Cristiano Ronaldo could not hold back the emotion as Portugal’s FIFA World Cup campaign came to a heartbreaking end on Monday, with the 41-year-old briefly fighting back tears after Spain sealed a dramatic 1-0 victory in the Round of 16.

The defeat is expected to mark Ronaldo’s final appearance at the World Cup, ending a two-decade pursuit of the one trophy that always eluded him. After the final whistle, the Portugal captain stood motionless for a few moments as the result sank in. He then shared a quick hug with Spain teenager Lamine Yamal before congratulating several opposition players.

It was during the post-match handshakes that the emotion finally caught up with him. Ronaldo briefly broke down before regaining his composure and walking down the tunnel, bringing the curtain down on what is likely his last World Cup appearance.