Cristiano Ronaldo sends rallying cry to Portuguese fans as Manchester United star wants ‘hell to break loose’ at stadium in World Cup play-off final against North Macedonia
Manchester United icon Cristiano Ronaldo has urged his Portuguese team-mates to stay focused as he aims to reach the World Cup in Qatar later this year.
He will face North Macedonia on Tuesday night, and victory will see his nation book their place in the tournament, which is eight months away.
The 37-year-old delivered a powerful message saying the clash was ‘life or death’, and also admitted he wanted ‘hell to break loose’ at Porto’s Estadio do Dragao.
Fernando Santos’ side beat Turkey in the play-off semi-finals as North Macedonia produced one of the biggest shocks, beating European champions Italy 1-0 to qualify for the final.
Ronaldo has claimed his country is confident they can get the better of Blagoja Milevski’s side but wants the fans to play a huge role in helping them secure victory.
“I urge the fans – I want all hell to break loose in Dragao [Stadium]”, said Ronaldo.
“I went to bed last night thinking I wanted the stadium to stop playing our national anthem and let the fans sing it a capella to show our passion, strength and unity around the goal of reaching the Cup. of the world.”
Ronaldo, who scored a world record 115 goals for Portugal during his career, described the significance of the clash.
Most read on talkSPORT
“They surprised [opponents] in many matches, but I don’t think they will surprise us.
Meanwhile, boss Fernando Santos has claimed his side cannot afford to start “lightly” against their opponents.
Italy managed 32 shots on goal but only five of them on target against North Macedonia, but had to regret their missed chances when Aleksandar Trajkovski scored in added time.
“If we think that theoretically the Macedonians are weaker, we are on the wrong track, this is the worst possible scenario,” Santos said.
“We have to face North Macedonia as we would have faced Italy.”
Betting offer of the day
Bet365: Bet £10 Get £50 Free Bets – CLAIM HERE
Minimum deposit requirement. Free bets are paid out as betting credits and can be used when settling qualifying bets. Minimum odds, betting and payment method exclusions apply. Returns exclude wagering bet credits. Deadlines and terms and conditions apply 18+ Begambleaware.org
Most Read Football
Sports