Share

Drogba no worry for Ronaldo

Magaliesburg - Cristiano Ronaldo played down his mouth-watering World Cup clash against Didier Drogba on Sunday, insisting that Portugal must not get distracted by the challenge posed by the Ivory Coast star.

The two sides clash in a crucial Group G match at Port Elizabeth on Tuesday just before pool rivals Brazil meet North Korea in Johannesburg.

"We know all about Drogba, he's a great player," said Ronaldo.

"But we can't get preoccupied by him. We must concentrate on our team, our tactics and our ambitions. That's the only way to win."

Portugal endured a troubled qualifying campaign, having to come through a two-legged play-off against Bosnia-Hercegovina to make sure of their place in the finals.

But Ronaldo insists those troubled times are behind them as the 2006 semi-finalists target a place in the knockout round.

"The most important thing is to get to the second round and if it's as group winners, that would be better," said the 25-year-old Real Madrid star.

"If not and we have to play Spain, there will be no need to fear them. Spain are one of the favourites for the World Cup, but we are not scared of anyone. We are going to play to win, or try to win."


We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1272 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1469 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2240 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE