World Cup 2014: Portugal are an 'average' team who could never win the World Cup, says Cristiano Ronaldo
The 29-year-old admitted he doesn't regard Portugal among the contenders for World Cup after the 2-2 draw with USA
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Cristiano Ronaldo has labelled Portugal an 'average' team after Paulo Bento's side came within seconds of being eliminated from the World Cup.
The Real Madrid forward looked far from full fitness during the game against the USA but still delivered a fine cross for substitute Silvestre Varela to head home in the 95th minute as Portugal stole a dramatic point, keeping them in the World Cup.
Portugal now need to overcome Ghana in their final group game and hope Germany beat the USA to stand any chance of progressing from Group G.
And Ronaldo has revealed he never felt his side could win the World Cup after another lacklustre performance left their World Cup in doubt.
"Maybe we're an average team," he said to reporters.
"It would be a lie to say that we are a top team. We have many limitations and suffer from injuries such as with Pepe [who was suspended] and [Fabio] Coentrao. This limits us a lot. We have a very limited team and we are not at the best level. This does not enable you to beat top teams.
"There are no miracles. We knew we would have a tough group, with perhaps teams better than us. I never thought we could be world champions, we have to be humble and know our level. I'm not a hypocrite, I never thought we could win the tournament."
Questioned about whether his injury problems were affecting his peformance, Ronaldo refused to divulge further about the extent of the problem, but hinted a long season with Real Madrid has affected him.
"I don't want to justify myself by talking about my physical problems, that's water under the bridge," he added.
"Every day there's something new in the papers about my knee, and about this and that. That's why I don't want to justify myself. I'm here body and soul to help the national team.
"I'm here, I'm fighting, I'm trying to do my best, I'm running, and obviously it's no use talking about my issues.
"Obviously we had a very long season, but every team here did as well. They were also playing the Champions League and cups and leagues, so it's something everyone else could point out as well."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments