CORNERFLICK
Cristiano Ronaldo said a World Cup title would not define him as he prepared for Portugal’s meeting with Spain in Dallas.
Speaking at a packed press conference at AT&T Stadium, the Portugal captain said he wanted to enjoy what may be his last World Cup and insisted his self-belief would not change if he never wins the trophy.
“Even if nothing happens, my conscience is 100 per cent clear,” he said. “I want to enjoy my last World Cup.” Ronaldo added that he hoped Friday’s match would not be his final game, joking that supporters could “keep bothering” him for a while longer.
He also said Portugal had arrived with a clear focus on the tournament, describing the squad as calmer, younger and better than previous groups. Ronaldo pointed to the wristbands the players are wearing as a tribute to Diogo Jota, and said the team should think beyond what happens on the pitch.
Ronaldo brushed off criticism too, saying he would not let outside noise affect him. “If I don’t win the World Cup, I’ll still be Cristiano,” he said.