9 July 2006, by Tom Kundert

Figo and Pauleta announce international retirement

“The saddest day of my career” – Pauleta

Portugal captain Luis Figo and striker Pedro Pauleta last night announced their retirement from international football.

“It was my last match,” said Figo following the defeat to hosts Germany, which left Portugal in fourth place at the 2006 World Cup.

“I told my team-mates after the match, I said that I was proud of being part of this squad and I thanked them for the affection and support they have given me over all these years. I leave the national team at a moment when Portuguese football is to be congratulated for what it achieved.”

“I would also like to thank the Portuguese population for all the affection they have shown me. We all hope we don’t have to wait another 40 years to see Portugal among the four best teams in the World.”

Difficult decision

The Inter Milan player admitted it was not an easy decision. “When you stop doing something that you like, and that you’ve been doing for 15 years, it’s not easy, but the most important thing is to leave with a clear conscience that I did everything to dignify my country.”

Figo will be remembered as one of Portugal’s all-time greats, earning a status alongside the legendary Eusebio. He made 127 appearances and scored 32 goals for his country.

Portugal’s all-time leading goalscorer Pauleta also confirmed that he had played his last match for the national team.

“Today was my last day. My time has come. Everything has a start and an end. This is the end. I leave in the knowledge that I gave everything for this shirt. I’d like to thank everybody, the players, coaches, physios, doctors, for the support they gave me.”

“It’s the saddest day of my career. Playing and scoring goals with this shirt was what I most liked to do,” said the visibly emotional Azorean.

Pauleta played 88 times for Portugal, scoring a record 47 goals for the national team.