Cristiano Ronaldo said he will “try to be a good boy” but expects to be booed by the home fans as Portugal take on the Republic of Ireland in Dublin on Thursday.
The 40-year-old will lead his country out in their World Cup qualifier at the Aviva Stadium knowing a victory will secure qualification to next summer’s tournament, which Ronaldo confirmed would be his last.
For the hosts, meanwhile, a ticket to football’s showpiece event is in the balance. Heimir Hallgrimsson’s side go into the game knowing they must take something from it to keep their World Cup hopes alive.
They are currently in third in Group F, a point behind Hungary with two games remaining.
Last month, Hallgrimsson’s men suffered late heartbreak in Lisbon, where a last-gasp winner from Ruben Neves saw Portugal take all three points after Caoimhin Kelleher had earlier saved Ronaldo’s penalty.
The Irish fans were further incensed after the Al-Nassr forward appeared to celebrate in the face of defender Jake O’Brien.
And while he expects a hostile reception, Ronaldo said he will try to keep his emotions in check.
“I really like the fans here. The support they give to the national team, it’s lovely. For me, it’s a pleasure to come and play here again,” Ronaldo said.
“Of course, it will be tough. I hope they don’t boo me too much tomorrow. I swear that I’m going to try to be a good boy.
“But of course, I do my job. I try to win the game and try to score to help my team. I’m sure that the game will be difficult.”
The former Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus star added that the jeering will be “normal” given the Republic of Ireland’s need to take something from the game.
“It’s normal because they know if they lose tomorrow, they are out, so they try to make things around the game, to try to do things,” Ronaldo said.
“But we have to be prepared for a tough game. I think it will be very similar to the game they played in Lisbon — and they have a chance.
“They are a good team, so we are prepared. I think Portugal will have a good game and will try to win the match.”
Ronaldo will be looking to add to his remarkable record of 143 goals in 225 international games as he closes in on a landmark 1,000 career goals.
Despite the numerous accolades and records, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner insisted a good team is not always about individuals.
“A national team doesn’t depend on one good player,” he said. “But it helps to have good players who can make a difference, especially with goals.
“It’s always good for me to score goals. I want to play in this next World Cup, but we’ll take it step by step.”
