Cristiano Ronaldo is through to the Round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup after Portugal edged Croatia 2-1 in a thriller at Toronto Stadium. Spain awaits in the next round, and the challenge only gets harder from here.
But even with all of that on his plate, Ronaldo found a moment that had nothing to do with football.
A series of earthquakes recently struck Venezuela, leaving widespread devastation across the country. Among those affected was a young boy named Andres Mieles, who lost one of his legs during the disaster in La Guaira state.
While recovering in hospital, Mieles had one simple wish - to get Ronaldo's official sticker for his World Cup album.
REUTERS - Jeenah Moon
Word of that wish made its way to the Portugal captain. Ronaldo recorded a personal video for the boy, dressed in his Portugal jersey, sending his support and calling on Mieles to get well soon. He also extended an invitation for the youngster to attend one of his matches.
"Hey Andres, how's it going? I'm making this video to send you a big hug," Ronaldo said. "I know you're a huge fan, and I hope you get well soon. I'd love to invite you to one of my games so we can enjoy it together. I can't wait to meet you. Hang in there, my friend."
According to Gaby Arocha on X, Mieles received the World Cup sticker he had been hoping for through generous donors and will also be gifted a signed Ronaldo jersey.
Georgina Rodriguez had already donated relief supplies to Venezuela before Ronaldo stepped in with his gesture.
The moment Mieles watched the video, surrounded by medical staff in his hospital bed, said everything. The young fan lit up completely and his reaction was exactly what everyone had hoped to see.
