Ronaldo before Macedonia: We are playing for our lives. The anthem will not play, sing it and create hell, he asks the fans

Portugal defeated Turkey 3-1 in the semi-final of the barrage and were very relieved to see the result of the second match where North Macedonia eliminated Italy. But Cristiano Ronaldo and co. must not underestimate the underdog either.

In the final of the barrage, a direct clash between titans Portugal and Italy was planned, but it didn’t happen in the end. The reigning European champions were unable to hold off North Macedonia, who decided the game in the 92nd minute.

But the Portuguese did not have an entirely smooth progression either. Against Turkey, they took a comfortable 2-0 lead, but Yilmaz reduced it to 1-2 and even had the opportunity to equalise at 2-2. But he blew the penalty and the Portuguese added a third goal.

They will face North Macedonia for the World Cup in Qatar and are the clear favourites. But just to get past Italy is not to be underestimated. However, the World Cup means a lot to the Portuguese, especially for captain Cristiano Ronaldo, for whom it would be the last championship.

“We are playing for our lives. I want to thank the fans for their support against Turkey, hopefully it will be the same or even bigger now. I ask the fans to create hell in the Dragau (stadium). I want not to play the anthem in the stadium, but let’s all sing it together to show our strength and passion. It’s a match to the death,” Ronaldo said at a press conference.

“We really want to get Portugal to the World Cup. We know they are a very well-organized team, they have their strengths. We respect that, but I think if Portugal plays at the highest level, they can beat any team in the world. We really want to win and be at the World Cup,” added the Portuguese phenomenon.

Portugal could have already been assured of qualification to the World Cup, but in their last qualifying match they were only awarded a goal against Serbia in the 92nd minute, which relegated them to second place. They have to fight their way through an uncomfortable barrier, where the unpredictable North Macedonia now lurks.

Source: Portugal national football team