Spain and Portugal are the two best nations in Group B at the World Cup.In Spain, we’re talking about a nation that has had great success on the international stage in the 21st century.They may live to regret the decision to sack former manager Julen Lopetegui two days before their World Cup opener, but their squad is filled with stars.As for Portugal, they’re the reigning European champions.FIFA’s world rankings are always to be taken with a pinch of salt but Portugal are currently fourth, above France and Argentina.In a group with Morocco and Iran, it would be a surprise if Spain and Portugal don’t progress.The nations will meet in Sochi on Friday evening and some football fans don’t feel as if Gary Lineker has shown Portugal much respect before the encounter.
Lineker 'disrespects' Portugal
The broadcaster was hosting BBC’s coverage of Uruguay’s 1-0 victory over Egypt on Friday afternoon when he signed off with a cheeky remark.
“We’ll be back shortly for Spain versus Ronaldo,” Lineker said.
Some fans believe Lineker disrespected Portugal by referring to them as ‘Ronaldo’ - and they may have a point.
Remember, Portugal won the Euro 2016 final without Ronaldo, who suffered an injury in the first half of the match.
Check out the reaction from fans on Twitter.
“‘We’ll be back soon for Spain v Ronaldo’ quite a disrespectful statement to make against the current European champions,” Twitter user @wallace92hfc wrote.
“Standard Gary Lineker.”
Portugal showed everyone two years ago that they’re more than just a one-man team.
Now at the age of 32, this could well be Ronaldo’s final World Cup.
Jose Mourinho certainly believes that is the case.
The Manchester United boss said, per BBC Sport: “Cristiano is a superman. He can [play at another World Cup] if he wants.
"But four more years at the highest level? To come back to the next World Cup I feel it will be hard.”
The Real Madrid superstar has won everything there is to win in football.
Adding the World Cup to his collection would complete a remarkable career.