The Portuguese team is already thinking about its next challenge in the 2026 World Cup and Cristiano Ronaldo is clear about the level of his rival. After beating Croatia 2-1 in the round of 32, the Portuguese striker assured that Spain is one of the main contenders for the title and expects a very balanced match.

The Portuguese captain, 41, highlighted that both teams know each other perfectly, which is why he believes that the tie will be defined by details.

"We know that Spain is a candidate to win the World Cup. It's going to be a difficult game, as they all will be from now on," Cristiano said.

"We are going to be prepared. We already know it well. It is going to be a very disputed game, in my opinion, and we are going to see what is going to happen," he said.

Cristiano Ronaldo assures that Portugal knows how to suffer in decisive moments

The attacker, who scored the tying goal from the penalty spot against Croatia, stated that the ability to overcome adversity will be key to continue advancing in the World Cup.

“Our goal was to pass, think game by game and see what is going to happen,” he said.

Regarding the moments of greatest pressure, the Portuguese said he felt prepared to respond when the team needed him most: "I feel good. Physically balanced."

Later, he explained how he experienced the development of the match and Portugal's reaction after starting down on the scoreboard.

"As captain, I have experienced moments like this. I said that we had to know how to suffer. To win a competition of this magnitude, we have to know how to suffer. Today happened. I think it was a quite interesting match for the spectators. We controlled the first half quite well. In the second, the match was a little chaotic, but that's normal. That's football. They scored and we got a little nervous."

"But then came the moment of release when we scored the penalty. From there, the game was easier. Afterwards we had a little more difficulty, but that's the competition. We have to be prepared. And keep going."

Portugal's emotional tribute to Diogo Jota

At the end of the match, Cristiano Ronaldo and the entire Portugal team paid tribute to Diogo Jota, who died on July 3, 2025 in a car accident with his brother André.

The forward explained that the victory had a special meaning for the entire group.

"It's a special day because, as you know, our Jota is up there shining a light on us. It's a special moment. We all feel his presence with us, and it made perfect sense to win today to honor him in the best way possible."

Cristiano Ronaldo dedicates words of respect to Luka Modric

In addition to the victory, the Portuguese was questioned about Luka Modric, who was able to play his last minutes in a World Cup with the Croatian team.

The attacker recalled his time with the midfielder at Real Madrid and highlighted the Croatian's career.

"Yes, I said goodbye. He is a football legend, and he still is. We are almost the same age, I am a year older than him. He is a legend. I have a lot of respect for Modric for what he did in football and for what he continues to do."