

A true leader is one that even against adversity can get to find the way to motivate his friends, Ronaldo had every reason to feel completely defeated after falling injured during the first half against France. But his winning spirit and determination were the main reason why he helped his teammates from the bench, in a demonstration of true leadership during the extra time, you could see Ronaldo talking to striker Eder who had just entered the field for Renato. His words resonated inside the player's head and later he produced the single most brilliant moment in Portuguese football's history.
The celebration was incredible, he ran out to hug Ronaldo who had motivated him during the small breaks. After lifting the title, Eder told A Bola that: "Ronaldo told me that I would score the winning goal. He gave me that confidence. But it was a goal that the whole team worked hard for. We were spectacular during the whole run. It's great to be congratulated. I knew that my chance would come from the moment I was called up. Fernando Santos knew of my qualities. He trusted me."
There is no doubt now, that the debate between him and Messi on who is the best player in football history will be fiercer than ever. The Portuguese player has now managed to win a trophy with his national team, Messi hasn't been able to do that just yet. Despite not playing most of the final, Cristiano Ronaldo has now earned a spot among the very best players in football history, right there next to Pele and Maradona without question.
Photo credit: UEFA EURO 2016