As Portugal prepares to face Denmark in the crucial second leg of the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals, Cristiano Ronaldo has captured attention for his on-field performance and candid confrontation with the media.
At a pre-match press conference, the Portuguese captain criticized the toxic atmosphere surrounding the national team. In response to what he perceived as disrespectful questions, Ronaldo issued a stern ultimatum:
“If you want answers from me, look me in the eye when you ask. There’s no point asking me something while staring at your computer. You’ll have time for that later. If necessary, I’ll tell you ten times.”
Ronaldo didn’t stop there. He accused sections of the media of fueling negativity and criticized the tone of recent press conferences:
"Don't ask me a question and then look at the computer, you should be looking me in the eye!" 😠
Cristiano Ronaldo FIRES BACK at Portuguese media for a lack of respect 😳🔥 pic.twitter.com/0mT5jtImcc
— Hayters TV (@HaytersTV) March 23, 2025
“I’ve seen some pressers lately, and I didn’t like them. I felt disrespected. And honestly, the national team deserves more support.”
Portugal Must Overcome First-Leg Deficit
Ronaldo’s emotional defence of his team comes as Portugal enters the match under pressure, losing 1-0 in the first leg in Copenhagen. A two-goal win at Lisbon’s Estádio José Alvalade is now required to advance to the Final Four.
🏆 #NationsLeague #PORDAN
🇵🇹💥 Cristiano Ronaldo recadre les journalistes : “Certaines de vos questions étaient simplement irrespectueuses”#interview #beINSPORTS pic.twitter.com/Jqa5M9tckz
— beIN SPORTS (@beinsports_FR) March 23, 2025
Denmark dominated the first encounter, with Rasmus Højlund scoring the decisive goal. Portugal’s performance was viewed by many as one of its worst under Roberto Martínez.
Read: Cristiano Ronaldo’s Secret to Staying Strong at 40
The winner of this match will face either Germany or Italy in the Nations League semi-finals, which are scheduled for June.