Portugal’s captain Cristiano Ronaldo has acknowledged that he represents “another generation” compared to Spain’s rising star Lamine Yamal, but emphasised that Sunday’s Nations League final is more than merely a duel between the two of them.
The final, set to take place in Munich, has been portrayed as a contest between the seasoned Ronaldo, who is 40 years old and one of football’s most renowned figures, and 17-year-old Yamal, who is widely regarded as one of the most exciting young talents in the sport today.
Ronaldo scored the decisive goal that propelled Portugal past Germany and into the final, while Yamal earned the man-of-the-match accolade for his two goals in Spain’s thrilling 5-4 semi-final victory over France.
However, Ronaldo contended that the emphasis on their individual rivalry is overstated, describing Spain as “possibly the best national team in the world.”
“There are different generations; one is emerging while another is stepping away. If you view me as part of another generation, that’s perfectly fine,” he stated.
“When you mention a clash between Cristiano and someone else, that’s not the reality. The media tends to embellish these narratives, which is understandable, but it’s truly one team against another team.”
“You’ve rightly been discussing Lamine a lot, and he deserves it as he’s very talented,” Ronaldo told reporters, noting, “but I prefer to highlight the team.”
“They have Nico Williams, talented midfielders like Pedri, and their coach (Luis) de la Fuente is exceptional—very strong and disciplined.”
‘Funny Hair’
Portugal has not triumphed over their Iberian rivals in a competitive match for 21 years, dating back to Euro 2004, where Ronaldo was a starting player.
Similar to Yamal, Ronaldo made a significant impact at a young age. At just 18, he drew notable attention while playing for his childhood club Sporting, impressing so much in a friendly 3-1 victory against Manchester United in Lisbon that the English side opted to sign him, bringing him to Old Trafford within days.
Just like a young Ronaldo, Yamal has steadily made his mark since his debut, clinching a league and cup double with Barcelona this season, following his Euro 2024 victory in Germany last summer.
The veteran Portuguese forward urged the media to allow the young player to develop and excel without undue pressure, reminding them that the Spanish talent, sporting “funny hair,” is merely “three years older than my son.”
“The kid has been performing exceptionally well, but I urge you to give him space to grow and not overload him with expectations. For the benefit of football, we must let him evolve in his own right and relish his talents.”
Both Spain and Portugal have claimed the Nations League title before, with Spain being the reigning champions following their victory in 2023, while Portugal secured the inaugural title in 2019.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
Fanpage: SportArena.com.au.
LiveScore – Live Sports Results & Odds.
