Cristiano Ronaldo vows to be ‘good boy’ amid Ireland boos

Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has promised to be a good boy when he faces the Republic of Ireland in Dublin on Thursday at Aviva Stadium. Ronaldo had celebrated Ruben Neves’ stoppage-time goal in the face of Jake O’Brien last month when these two teams had met in a reverse fixture.

The Al Nassr star said he is focused on scoring for his team and helping them win the contest in the ongoing World Cup qualifiers.

“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.

“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.”

Last month in Lisbon, Ronaldo’s penalty was saved by Ireland’s goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher. The spot kick was given by Slovakian referee Ivan Kruzliak and Irish fans accused Ronaldo of influencing the referee in his decision, but the forward squashed any such speculations.

He said: “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.

“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 has netted 143 goals for Portugal but said it is always about the team’s success.

He said: “A national team doesn’t depend on one good player, 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.”