2026-06-24 11:01:09
Cristiano Ronaldo says it “would be awesome” to go head-to-head with old rival Lionel Messi at the World Cup.
The sporting icon became the first player to score at six World Cups as he netted twice during Portugal’s 5-0 win over Uzbekistan on Tuesday (23.06.26) and hopes that he can guide his country to a potential quarter-final clash with Messi’s Argentina.
Speaking to reporters post-game, Ronaldo said: “I don’t know how to answer that. But, well, it would be awesome.
“The most important thing was today, winning to advance, and being ready for what’s next … The main goal was to advance from the group stage, and we did it.”
Ronaldo’s brace was the perfect riposte to those who questioned his place in Portugal’s starting XI following the draw with DR Congo in their opening game and he said the criticism that followed had been “tough and difficult” to handle.
The 41-year-old footballer said: “It was a very tough and difficult week, with public opinion being very harsh on all the players, especially on me and the coach [Roberto Martinez].But I don’t mind. I’ve been in this profession for 23 years now, and whenever things go well, ‘Cristiano is doing great,’ but when they go badly, ‘Cristiano is retired, he’s too old.’ It will always be like that. But we responded well today.”
However, Ronaldo refused to answer a question about the prospect of chasing down Messi to win the Golden Boot.
The Al-Nassr player said: “Next question.
“The most important thing is the team, being united with them. We can’t control the rest that comes from outside. We know that when we don’t win, we get attacked, especially me.”
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