Cristiano Ronaldo Clashes with Media Ahead of Crucial Denmark Rematch

In a tense pre-match press conference held at the Cidade do Futebol in Oeiras, just outside Lisbon, Portugal's captain, Cristiano Ronaldo, addressed the media ahead of the decisive UEFA Nations League quarter-final second leg against Denmark. The Portuguese team faces the challenge of overturning a 1-0 deficit from the first leg.​

Ronaldo did not hide his dissatisfaction with the tone of some questions posed by journalists, perceiving a negative atmosphere surrounding the national team. He expressed his frustration, stating, "I feel like there's a lot of negativity around the national team. I've watched some of the press conferences over the last few days — I didn't like what I saw, I don't like it."

The 40-year-old forward emphasized the importance of respect during interactions, insisting that reporters maintain eye contact when addressing him. He remarked, "Some of the questions you've asked were just disrespectful. If you want answers from me, look me in the eyes when you ask. There's no point asking me something and then looking down at your computer."

Reflecting on the previous match, Ronaldo was candid about his and the team's performance, admitting, "I didn't play at all, the team didn't play at all, ... ." He called for unity and support from fans, urging them to back the team in the upcoming home fixture. "We are in a more tense moment ... , to transmit their strength to us, ... ," he said.

Addressing the incident where Denmark's Rasmus Hojlund mimicked his iconic 'Siu' celebration after scoring, Ronaldo dismissed any notions of disrespect. He commented, "It's no problem for me. I know it wasn't out of disrespect ... . I'm smart enough to understand that. ... ."

The press conference highlighted the pressure Portugal faces in the upcoming match, with Ronaldo's responses shedding light on the team's current mindset and the external scrutiny they are under.

Published by Patrick Jane
23.03.2025