Portugal are not good enough to win the World Cup their world footballer of the year Cristiano Ronaldo admitted after Sunday’s thrilling 2-2 draw with the United States.
The 29-year-old Real Madrid superstar – whose fitness has been a hot source of debate – kept his country’s slim hopes of reaching the second round alive with a sublime cross which was headed home by Silvestre Varela in the dying seconds of time added on.
The Portuguese, who were hammered 4-0 by Germany in their opening game, must beat Ghana. On top of that, they must hope there is a winner from the other match between Germany and the Americans – who both have four points – on Thursday to leave the second qualifying spot down to goal difference.
However, Ronaldo – who looks doomed to prolong the curse of the world footballer of the year never winning the World Cup the year he wins the award – said even reaching the second round will not presage a revival that will see them lift the World Cup trophy for the first time.
“Portugal were never a favourite,” said Ronaldo.
