“We’re not afraid of them” - Slovenia coach issues strong message ahead of knockout clash vs Cristiano Ronaldo-led Portugal at Euro 2024
Slovenia manager Matjaz Kek has insisted that the side are well-prepared to face Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal in their upcoming Round-of-16 clash in Euro 2024. The head coach suggested that while his side are not the favorites in the match, they are relishing the challenge.
Kek said (via French outlet RFI):
"When you look at their squad list you get a headache, they can rotate, change however much they want.
"But our approach does not change because of that. I see Portugal as one of the favorites to win the tournament, but Slovenia has not been the favorite in all three group matches, and we're not the favorites tomorrow."
"We're not afraid of them, we're really glad to be able to play against such teams. It will be a tough match, but we're really happy to be able to play it."
It has been a great campaign for Slovenia, securing qualification to the knockout stages of Euro 2024. They played out three draws in Group C and moved on as one of the four best third-placed teams.
Portugal, meanwhile, finished as the toppers of Group F. Roberto Martinez's side bagged two wins over Czechia and Turkey before suffering a loss to Georgia. Ronaldo will be hoping to get back into goalscoring touch against the Slovenians after going goalless through the group stages.
Former Manchester United defender provides insight into Cristiano Ronaldo's mindset after loss to Georgia at Euro 2024
Former Manchester United defender Wes Brown has claimed that Cristiano Ronaldo was unhappy with himself coming off in Portugal's 2-0 loss to Georgia.
Speaking on the Euro Thrash podcast, he said:
"That's normal. He's come off, he wants to score. I've said this in previous ones. His attitude's so good. People might think he's snapping at other people but he's not.
"He's just wounded he's not scored before he's come off. He probably knew he was coming off after a certain amount of time by the way, and he'll just be disappointed he's not contributed or got an assist or a goal."
Ronaldo was one of the few Portugal players to feature in all three of their group-stage clashes at Euro 2024. However, he has failed to find the back of the net in any game.
The Selecao are set to face Slovenia in the Round of 16 on Monday (July 1) to begin their knockouts campaign. Should they progress through, a mouthwatering clash against France or Belgium is on the cards.