Cristiano Ronaldo receives surprise Harry Maguire message after marking 200th Portugal appearance with late winner

• Ronaldo made his 200th international appearance
• Scored late to hand Portugal the three points
• Maguire sent message to forward on Instagram

WHAT HAPPENED? Portugal's talismanic skipper came to the rescue when he scored against Iceland in the 90th minute to seal a 1-0 victory for the visitors in a Euro 2024 qualifier on Tuesday evening. It was his record-extending 123rd international goal, and to commemorate his 200th game with the Seleccao, Ronaldo put up a video on his Instagram - a collage of all his best moments at international level.

Along with the video, he wrote a caption that read: "200 games with the same commitment, dedication, and responsibility, just like the first time I played with this jersey. I am here, continuing to score, pursuing my dream and giving my all for the team and for our country. Por amor a Portugal."

His former Real Madrid teammate Marcelo, with whom he shares a close bond, commented with three love-eye emojis. But it was surprising to find Maguire also congratulating Ronaldo, given that there were widespread reports of the defender being embroiled in a "power struggle" with the forward over the captaincy during his second spell at Manchester United. However, the reported feud seems to be in the past as Maguire replied “Some achievement”, with clapping and fire emojis to Ronaldo's post.

Cristiano Ronaldo Instagram

THE BIGGER PICTURE: Ronaldo was ecstatic after reaching the 200-cap milestone with his country and the occasion was made even sweeter as he turned up in the right place at the right time to score the winner against a gritty Iceland defence.

"I'm so happy. To reach 200 caps is the kind of moment that you never expect. It's an unbelievable achievement. And of course, to score the winning goal makes it even more special," he said after the game.

IN A PHOTO:

Getty Images

WHAT NEXT? Ronaldo will go on his post-season break after fulfilling his international commitments, but will return to action a month later in a friendly against Celta Vigo with his club Al-Nassr on July 17.