Ronaldo Embraces the Hostility Ahead of Ireland Clash

Cristiano Ronaldo has never shied away from pressure — he feeds on it. And on the eve of one of Portugal’s most important matches on the road to the 2026 World Cup, the 40-year-old captain delivered a line that instantly lit up the football world: he wants the boos.

The atmosphere in Dublin is expected to be electric, with Portugal just one win away from booking their ticket to the tournament. In 2021, every touch of the ball brought a chorus of jeers for Ronaldo. This time, he isn’t just ready for it — he’s asking for more.

“I’m used to it,” he said with a smile. “I hope they boo me. Maybe it takes pressure off the other players.”

“I Hope They Do”: Ronaldo Sends a Message to Dublin

Speaking with confidence and a hint of humor, Ronaldo explained that he’s playing this phase of his career with a different mindset: compete, enjoy, and set the tone for the group.

“What I want most is to enjoy myself. It’s not fully decisive, but almost — if we win, we qualify. We want to finish it now,” he said.

Ronaldo may also cross paths with a familiar face: Ireland assistant coach John O’Shea, his former Manchester United teammate.

“With him I have a great relationship,” Ronaldo said… before ending with a playful wink:
“I repeat — I hope they boo me again tomorrow. I promise I’ll try to be a good boy.”

Portugal Expect a Defensive Wall

Portugal remember well how Ireland frustrated them last time. A compact defense, physical duels, and a tactical plan built on discipline and counterattacks.

Ronaldo expects nothing different:
“They won’t push too much. They’ll stay tight, defend hard, and wait for counterattacks. It will be similar to Lisbon, but we’re prepared.”

Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrímsson acknowledged Portugal’s main weapon:
“The statistics speak for themselves. He’s still scoring, still breaking records. One of the reasons they attack so aggressively is his hunger for goals.”

One Goal: Seal the World Cup Ticket

Portugal depend solely on themselves. Win in Dublin, and they’re in.
For Cristiano Ronaldo, who is approaching what could be his sixth and final World Cup, the mission is clear.

“I know when I’m an asset,” he said. “But the only thing that matters now is that we qualify.”

Come boos, whistles or pressure, Ronaldo will walk into the Aviva Stadium exactly as he likes it: with the entire world watching — and the noise pointing straight at him.