Only behind Lionel Messi! Cristiano Ronaldo equaled a FIFA World Cup record in Portugal’s goalless draw against Colombia

Cristiano Ronaldo (Photo: Getty Images) Cristiano Ronaldo achieved another major World Cup milestone on Saturday despite Portugal being held to a 0-0 draw by Colombia in their final Group K match. The result was enough for both teams to qualify for the round of 32, with Colombia finishing top of the group and Portugal advancing as runners-up.The match also marked a historic personal success for the 41-year-old captain of Portugal. Ronaldo made his 25th FIFA World Cup appearance, equaling German legend Lothar Matthaus for the second-most appearances in the tournament’s history. Only Argentina captain Lionel Messi, who played 29 World Cup matches, has appeared on the biggest football stage more than once.While Ronaldo added another milestone to his remarkable career, he also extended an unusual record. The experienced striker has now been caught offside 11 times during the last two World Cups – four times more than any other player in that period. France’s Kylian Mbappe and Colombia’s Luis Diaz are next on the list with seven offsides.On the pitch, Portugal needed a win to secure top spot in Group K but struggled to break down a well-organised Colombian defence. Ronaldo remained Portugal’s main attacking threat throughout the match, but clear-cut chances were hard to come by.Colombia started brightly and almost took the lead within the opening minute when Jhon Cordoba headed over the bar and later forced an excellent save from Portugal goalkeeper Diogo Costa. Portugal enjoyed more possession throughout the match, with Bruno Fernandes coming closest to scoring in the first half, only to be denied by Colombia goalkeeper Camilo Vargas.The South Americans almost grabbed a dramatic win in the 90th minute when Davinson Sanchez found the net, but the goal was ruled out for offside. Despite the goalless result, Colombia secured top spot in Group K, while Portugal also comfortably advanced to the knockout stages.