France captain Kylian Mbappe on Thursday called Portugal a “giant team” and reiterated his admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo, saying it would be an “honour” to face him in the quarter-finals of Euro 2024.
“It’s a great honour. Everyone knows how much I admire Cristiano Ronaldo. We’ve met many times. We talk a lot, he helps me and gives me advice on what’s going on in my career and in my life. He’s a unique player.” He inspired generations. But with all due respect, I hope that tomorrow. [sexta-feira] “Don’t be happy after the game,” said Kylian Mbappe.
The 25-year-old, who will represent Real Madrid next season, was speaking to reporters in Hamburg, Germany, at a press conference ahead of the Portugal-France quarter-final of the European Championship.
“We want to be champions, but the first step, starting today, is to reach the semi-finals, and for that we need to beat Portugal. They are a giant team. We must be at our best,” the striker believes.
Smiling, friendly and ready to answer countless questions from reporters, Mbappe said it would be a “mistake” for France to only look at Cristiano Ronaldo at Friday’s meeting.
“Portugal is dangerous in all sectors. They have great players in all positions. Ronaldo is dangerous, of course, but we have to pay attention to everyone. If we just look at Ronaldo, we will pay a lot,” he stressed.
The Paris-born striker also spoke about Pepe’s longevity and denied that he expected any relief due to the Portuguese centre-back’s age.
“He’s never easy to get past. Even at 41. He’s a legend. It would be an honour to be on the pitch with him. I have a lot of respect for him, although that respect drops a little when the game starts. That’s part of it. Once we’re no longer opponents and the game is over, the respect will come back,” he joked.
After numerous complaints about the mask he wore at his last press conference due to breaking his nose during the tournament, Mbappe confirmed that it was “difficult” to act that way, although he has since made peace.
“I just have to thank the mask. Without it, I wouldn’t be able to play in this European Championship. I can only play because of it,” he concluded.
The Euro 2024 quarter-final match Portugal vs. France will kick off at 21:00 local time (20:00 in Lisbon) at the Volksparkstadion. It will be refereed by England’s Michael Oliver.
Author: Lusa
Source: CM Jornal
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