Ronaldo: I have always had good stats against Spain

Cristiano Ronaldo said this will be his last World Cup and insisted he alone will decide when to end his career, ahead of Portugal's meeting with Spain.

The Portugal captain dismissed speculation about retirement, saying he would step away from football when he chooses, not when reporters want him to. He also claimed the media had tried to "destroy" him for 23 years.

Ronaldo said he still approaches every match with the same love and hunger he felt in his first professional game. He said records and goals were not his main focus, and that what he would take from the tournament was the affection and memories of Portugal supporters.

Asked about Spain, he said he did not want to disrespect them but felt Portugal would win. He described Spain as a strong side, while also saying he has historically done well against them.

He also praised Lamine Yamal, calling the teenager a player with a bright future, but stressed that Spain are not built around one player. Ronaldo added that his role for Portugal differs from his one at Al Nassr, where he has more freedom, and said he is more often tasked with occupying defenders and creating space in the national team.