MILAN, Nov 18, 2018 (BSS/AFP) – Portugal coach Fernando Santos insisted
Saturday that superstar Cristiano Ronaldo remains a key part of his national
team despite being left out of his Nations League squad, after the European
champions became the first team to advance to the semi-finals of the
competition.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner spent much of last month vehemently
denying allegations of rape and was dropped by Santos for the Nations League
internationals amid accusations by former model Kathryn Mayorga that Ronaldo
raped her in 2009, just before he joined Real Madrid from Manchester United.
“There are no questions to ask. Ronaldo is part of this team, just read the
post he wrote today,” said Santos, referring to the message the Juventus
player sent to wish his teammates good luck via Twitter.
Portugal booked their ticket to the semi-finals next June after holding
Italy to a 0-0 draw at the San Siro on Saturday.
They progressed top of Group A3 with one match to play, dashing Italy’s
hopes in the process.
“The qualification confirms the quality of our football,” said Santos.
“I thought it would be a great match and instead especially in the first
half we had a lot of difficulties.
“After the break I explained to them what was happening, and the game
became more balanced.”
Portugal host relegated Poland in three days in Guimaraes, in a match that
has no significance for either side.
But Santos insisted: “The final match against Poland will be important
because it will be on front of our public, who are always with us.
“We have to play well and to win.”