Portugal will hope the Cristiano Ronaldo we know shows up, says Nuno Gomes

Gomes believes that Cristiano Ronaldo could be in the running to end up as Euro 2020's top scorer, though Robert Lewandowski was his favourite for the golden boot.

Cristiano Ronaldo is considered one of the best players in world football. (Image Credit: Twitter)
By Arnab Mukherji | Jun 10, 2021 | 2 Min Read follow icon Follow Us

Former Portugal striker Nuno Gomes has stated that fans of his home nation will hope to see legendary footballer Cristiano Ronaldo at his best, rather than one battling injuries. Gomes termed Ronaldo as a player who was at the top of his game both physically and mentally, and well capable of helping his team win games. The veteran is currently representing Juventus and will be looking to make his presence felt in Euro 2020.

“Cristiano is always a plus. He is still at the top of his game, physically and mentally, and all of Portugal hopes he will be the Cristiano we know. He can help Portugal win games. I hope he doesn’t have any niggling injuries. If he is fit, he will always stand out in our team,” said Gomes in his column for UEFA’s official website.

“The competition always witnesses great individual performances. I hope the best ends up being a Portuguese player. It could be Cristiano Ronaldo, while Kylian Mbappe and Kevin De Bruyne are also leading candidates. Ronaldo could also be in the running to end up as tournament top scorer. Then there’s Romelu Lukaku and the returning Karim Benzema, who may get plenty of opportunities – their teams create a lot of chances. Robert Lewandowski is still my favourite for the golden boot,” he added.

“Backing Portugal to win Euro 2020”

Gomes backed Portugal to win Euro 2020, terming the nation as favourites alongside France and Germany. He further believes that England, Italy and Belgium are well capable of springing a surprise.

“I am backing Portugal to win EURO 2020. I have to back my country, who are among the favourites alongside France and Germany. England, Italy and Belgium are all outside bets, capable of springing a surprise. The first game against Hungary could be crucial for Portugal. The result of the other group match between Germany and France has an impact, but it is important to start with a win. Hungary are underdogs but we must beware of their bite.”

“They have good players and it will be a difficult match for Portugal. Hungary are playing at home, with the support of their fans. It is in Portugal’s hands, though: they should win this game and then go into battle against Germany with three points under their belts,” he added.

Gomes termed Kylian Mbappe and N’Golo Kante as two players he would have liked to play with, on a concluding note.





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