- Ronaldo promised Szoboszlai a shirt after post-match snub
- Hungary captain first met his idol as a mascot in 2009
- Pair will face each other again in Lisbon next month
Hungary lost 3-2 to Portugal in Budapest, with Ronaldo scoring from the spot and Joao Cancelo netting a dramatic late winner. After the game, Szoboszlai approached Ronaldo to swap shirts, only to discover the Portugal star had already given his away. Despite the setback, the two captains shared a moment after the final whistle.
Outside Portugal’s dressing room, Ronaldo reassured Szoboszlai he would still receive a shirt as per Portuguese outlet O Jogo. The Portugal captain was heard telling him: “I will give you one of mine from my home.” Szoboszlai, meanwhile, handed Ronaldo his own jersey as a sign of respect.
The meeting was particularly significant for Szoboszlai, who once walked out as a mascot in 2009 when Hungary faced Portugal, with Ronaldo leading the team. Sixteen years later, the Liverpool star lined up against his childhood hero as Hungary’s captain. It underlined a full-circle moment in his career, despite the disappointing result.
Ronaldo and Szoboszlai will cross paths again when Hungary travel to Lisbon for the reverse fixture next month. The Liverpool midfielder will be hoping his side can improve on their slow start to qualifying. For Ronaldo, another chance to inspire Portugal and keep their momentum going awaits.
