Cristiano Ronaldo spoke to the media ahead of the World Cup qualifier between Portugal and Ireland and revealed that the group is ready to earn a ticket to the next World Cup. “It’s always complicated. Away games are difficult. Ireland can still dream. The team is ready. A win will secure our place. We are confident,” said the striker.
The Portuguese captain said he has no intention of changing the formula that has brought his team to the top. “It will be the same situation. We will have to try again and again. We will not play a different game than Lisbon. With our quality, our players, our concept, we will aim for victory,” he added.
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Cristiano humorously reacts to the idea of scoring his 1000th goal in the World Cup final
During the press conference, journalists presented CR7 with a cinematic scenario of scoring his 1,000th goal in the World Cup final and winning the title with Portugal. The question drew smiles from the crowd, but the Portuguese captain responded with his usual mix of sarcasm and pragmatism.
I’ve been watching too many movies, let’s get back to reality.
“I think I watch too much film. It’s too perfect. Let’s get back to reality,” the striker replied with a laugh, revealing that although the numbers are on his side, he remains focused on the present and his day-to-day work with the national team.
Cristiano aims for sixth World Cup appearance
The Al Nasr star admitted that the possibility of playing in a sixth World Cup is special. “It’s always special. I hope we win tomorrow (Thursday) and in nine months I’ll be healthy and play the final stretch again,” he said.
Ronaldo, who made his World Cup debut in Germany in 2006, wants to write a new chapter in the national team’s history. “I want to play in this World Cup, otherwise I wouldn’t be here. If that script becomes reality…if necessary, I will finish my career on a good note,” he said.
About the future and retirement
When asked about his retirement, Cristiano was candid. “What I have already said has been said,” he said. “There is no need to take our attention away from what is important. Today we have to think about Thursday. Portugal are here to win and go to the final stage again. We may talk about it later. We have to enjoy this moment now,” he said.
International football’s all-time leading scorer has insisted that the key to longevity is the ability to adapt. “Scoring goals is the most difficult thing in football. I think it was wise to adapt to today’s football. Some things have been lost and some things have been gained. It is part of life. It is the head that makes the difference,” he explained.
