CORNERFLICK
Vitinha says Portugal are approaching their World Cup last-16 tie against Croatia with a clear aim: winning the tournament and helping Cristiano Ronaldo’s long-held dream come true.
The Paris Saint-Germain midfielder spoke in Toronto, where Portugal were greeted by thousands of travelling supporters after arriving in the city. Ronaldo drew the biggest response from the crowd, with many fans hoping what may be his final World Cup ends with a title rather than an early exit.
Speaking to Mundo Deportivo, Vitinha said Portugal have several reasons to push for the trophy.
"We have many reasons that make us fight for the title with full ambition."
He added that the motivation runs beyond the competition itself.
"We do not want to win just because it is the World Cup. As players and as a team, we want to do it for a country, for our parents, our families, our friends, for Jota and of course for Cristiano."
Vitinha also said Portugal must improve on their group-stage level if they are to progress.
"We really hope to go through, but we have to show that we deserve it. If we play good football, we will have a better chance. We have to raise our level and perform better as a team. If we do that, we will be closer to qualifying."
Roberto Martinez’s side face Croatia in one of the standout ties of the round, with Portugal chasing a first World Cup title.