Ahead of the highly anticipated World Cup Round of 16 clash between Spain and Portugal in Dallas, Cristiano Ronaldo stole the spotlight during a press conference alongside national team manager Roberto Martinez. The event drew massive media attention, not only due to the magnitude of the upcoming Iberian derby but also because of lingering speculation that this tournament could mark the final World Cup appearance for the legendary Portuguese forward.
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Subscribe Sekarang →"This World Cup is proving to be a beautiful experience," Ronaldo stated. "It is not easy for anyone, which is evident from the teams that have already been eliminated. However, I see our squad is calm. Tomorrow we face a very difficult opponent, but we are fully prepared." When pressed on whether this would be his final global tournament, the 41-year-old veteran remained unfazed, asserting his enduring influence on the squad. "It has always been this way, and it will not change. Whether I am playing or not, I will always hold an important role in this national team. I will finish when I want to. The last one? We will see. But that is not important; the only thing that matters is tomorrow's match."
According to editorial observations, the Al Nassr forward used the platform to address the relentless media scrutiny he has faced throughout his illustrious 23-year career, even expressing a sense of gratitude for his detractors. "What I have done throughout my career is continuously adapt to changing times. I even say thank you for the attacks I have faced after turning 40. Criticism is what makes you grow the most, so thank you to you journalists, you have made me grow even more. You have tried to kill me for the last 23 years, but you must have realized by now it was not worth it, that it was a waste of time, yet you kept trying again and again."
When asked if football owed him anything, Ronaldo gave a definitive response, stating that life has been incredibly generous to him and that he continues to learn from every experience. He also outlined how his tactical responsibilities shift when playing for his country compared to his club football in Saudi Arabia. "In the national team, I do not play the same way as I do at Al Nassr. I play closer to the penalty box. What I need to do is put the ball in the net. We must respect our opponent, but I am convinced that tomorrow we will win."
Ronaldo expressed a deep affection for Spain, recognizing them as perennial contenders, but remained firm in his belief that Portugal would advance. When questioned about Spanish teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, Ronaldo chose to praise the collective strength of the opposition while offering some indirect career advice to the youngster. "Spain has a lot of talent, you cannot individualize it. They have very good generations and are always candidates to win. We must have faith and courage to beat them." He added that surviving a long career requires blocking out destructive criticism and focusing entirely on those who offer genuine support.
Based on media reports, the press conference concluded with Ronaldo's trademark wit during a tense yet humorous exchange with a reporter. After challenging a specific journalist by saying, "I challenge you to ask a good question, I know you do not like me," the reporter asked what the most difficult aspect of playing a World Cup at 41 years old was. Ronaldo quickly fired back, "Speaking with you... with some of you, the ones who do not like me," before jokingly adding that he hopes Portugal wins so the media can continue criticizing him for a bit longer.
Prior to Ronaldo taking the stage, Portugal manager Roberto Martinez emphasized the necessity of playing with personality and peak performance. Martinez voiced immense respect for Spain, describing their distinct footballing philosophy and noting that both sides thrive when in possession of the ball. The coach lamented the timing of the fixture, stating that Spain and Portugal are "two almost brotherly countries" and concluding that it is a shame they are meeting so early in the knockout stages, as it would have made for a fantastic tournament final.