The Portuguese superstar is bracing for a hostile reception at the World Cup qualifier in Dublin. The star striker has never shied away from pressure, and this time he brought it on as Portugal prepare to play their World Cup qualifier decider against the Republic of Ireland on Thursday.
Ronaldo ready for boos
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner knows what to expect in Dublin. In 2021, during the last meeting between Portugal and Ireland (a tense goalless draw), he was greeted by a round of boos every time he touched the ball. It didn’t faze him then, and it looks like it won’t this time. Ronaldo’s longevity has kept him at the heart of the Seleção, and the Irish fans, whose passion is unwavering, should create a supercharged atmosphere. Ronaldo, however, should draw strength from this energy.
“Let them boo me!” »
On the eve of Thursday’s match, Ronaldo spoke of the expected reception with a mixture of humor and defiance.
“ The stadium will boo me, I’m used to it, and I hope they do, maybe it will take the pressure off the other players.” he told reporters. “ What I want above all is to have fun. It’s not decisive, but almost. We know that a victory qualifies us. We must conclude now. »
Ronaldo could come across a familiar face in Ireland assistant coach John O’Shea, with whom he played at Manchester United for six seasons.
“Well, if I meet him,” he replied. “
Obviously, we played together for years. I have excellent relations, with him and with other Irish people. I kept links, and that’s very good. »
Then, with a wink, he added: “ I repeat, I hope there will be no boos against me tomorrow. It’s a pleasure for me to come back and play here. I swear I’ll try to be good.»
