New York, July 7 -- Aymeric Laporte and Cristiano Ronaldo experienced contrasting emotions after Spain eliminated Portugal from the World Cup on Monday.
While Ronaldo left the field in tears following Portugal's exit in the round of 16, Laporte was all smiles after helping Spain book a place in the quarterfinals while extending one of the tournament's most remarkable defensive records.
Laporte spent two years alongside Ronaldo at Saudi Arabia's Al Nassr between 2023 and 2025 before returning to Athletic Club, where he had begun his professional career. His move to Saudi Arabia came at a cost internationally.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente dropped the central defender from the national team, questioning whether the level of competition in ...