FIFA World Cup: Would be a lie to say Portugal are a top team, says Ronaldo

Portugal are not good enough to win the World Cup, their World Footballer of the Year Cristiano Ronaldo admitted after Sunday's thrilling 2-2 draw with the United States

Manaus: Portugal are not good enough to win the World Cup, their World Footballer of the Year Cristiano Ronaldo admitted after Sunday's thrilling 2-2 draw with the United States.


Cristiano Ronaldo. Pic/AFP 

The 29-year-old Real Madrid superstar — whose fitness has been a hot source of debate — kept his country's slim hopes of reaching the second round alive with a sublime cross which was headed home by Silvestre Varela in the dying seconds of time added on.

"Maybe we're an average team," he added. "It would be a lie to say that we are a top team. We have a very limited team and we are not at the best level.

This does not enable you to beat top teams. There are no miracles. We knew we would have a tough group, with perhaps teams better than us. I never thought we could be world champions, we have to be humble and know our level."

Ronaldo added that he could have taken the easy way out and not come to the finals given his fitness concerns.

"It could have been a lot easier for me, I could have not come to the World Cup and I would have sat at home as a Champions League winner.

"Instead I answered my country's call as always," said Ronaldo, who inspired the Portuguese to a surprise run to the Euro 2012 semi-finals.

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!