Ronaldo not prioritized, says Portugal teammate Conceição
Translated from Croatian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Portugal's national soccer team faces pressure after a disappointing draw against DR Congo in their World Cup opener.
- Teammate Francisco Conceição stated that the team does not feel obligated to pass the ball exclusively to Cristiano Ronaldo, emphasizing that he is just another player helping the team.
- Conceição highlighted Ronaldo's professionalism and hunger for victory as an inspiration, urging the team to show a stronger response in their upcoming match against Uzbekistan.
Portugal's national soccer team is under scrutiny following a disappointing 1-1 draw against DR Congo in their World Cup opener. The team faces pressure to perform better in their crucial upcoming match against Uzbekistan.
He is here to help, like any other player.
Amidst criticism, winger Francisco Conceição has pushed back against the idea that the team's play is subordinate to Cristiano Ronaldo. He clarified that while Ronaldo is an exceptional goal scorer, there is no obligation to pass him the ball. Conceição stated, "I pass it to whoever is in the best position. He is here to help, like any other player."
He is an example, due to his career and the hunger for victory he shows every day. In every training session, he is as motivated as if it were his last.
Conceição acknowledged Ronaldo's significant contributions and professional attitude, calling him an "example" due to his career and daily drive for victory. He believes Ronaldo's mentality should motivate the rest of the squad. "If he has achieved so much and still shows such desire, ours must be even greater," Conceição said, reinforcing that Ronaldo is simply another player contributing to the team's function.
If he has achieved so much and still shows such desire, ours must be even greater.
The team recognizes the need for a swift and improved performance. "Before we give an answer to others, we must show ourselves that we are capable of reacting," Conceição stated. The team aims to move past the initial setback and silence critics with a stronger showing in their next game.
Before we give an answer to others, we must show ourselves that we are capable of reacting. We want this moment to pass as soon as possible.
Originally published by Večernji List in Croatian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.