"I believe this generation deserves to win a competition" - Portugal skipper Cristiano Ronaldo makes honest admission ahead of Euro 2024
Cristiano Ronaldo believes that the current Portugal squad deserves to win a trophy ahead of Euro 2024. The Al Nassr star admitted that there was anxiety ahead of the competition but he was motivated to do well.
Speaking to the media, Ronaldo said that the Portugal squad was calm but excited for the tournament in Germany. He also urged his teammates to aim for the title win, saying (via GOAL):
"Anxiety is always there, that tingling in your stomach, especially the day before a game. I'm glad I feel it because when I don't, it's a sign to stop. I feel motivated and prepared. The team is very calm. We had a day to spend with our families, which is important. The team is excited and happy, and the trip went well. I believe this generation deserves to win a competition of this magnitude, but we must take it step by step. Dreaming is good, and we have to keep dreaming."
Portugal, who won the EURO in 2016, were knocked out by Belgium in the Round of 16 in the 2020 edition. Thorgan Hazard scored the only goal of the game, knocking out Cristiano Ronaldo and his teammates.
Cristiano Ronaldo prepared for EURO 2024
Cristiano Ronaldo also talked about his preparations for Euro 2024, which would be his sixth European Championship.
He was quoted by GOAL as saying:
"I feel prepared for this competition. There are five days left until our first game, and it's crucial to get off to a good start. I enjoy football, and records are a byproduct, not a goal—they come naturally. This being my sixth European Championship, it's about enjoying it in the best way possible, playing well, and ensuring the team can win."
Speaking about his time with the Portugal national team, he added:
"It was very beautiful, with all the roads filled with Portuguese and Germans. It brought back memories from 18 years ago. I have good memories from that time, and it feels like something has changed, but it's still special."
Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal start their Euro 2024 campaign against the Czech Republic on Tuesday. They will face Turkey and Georgia in the other two group-stage matches.