Portugal not concerned by Spain threat, insists Ronaldo

Ronaldo, 25, scored 33 goals for Real Madrid last season

Cristiano Ronaldo says Portugal must try to win their World Cup group in order to avoid a last-16 clash with Spain, but insists his side do not fear the reigning European champions.

Portugal will face Brazil, Ivory Coast and North Korea in group G and could be pitted against Spain in the first knock-out round.

“The most important thing is to get to the second round and if it’s as group winners, that would be better,” said Ronaldo.

But the 25-year-old says there is “no need” to fear playing Spain.

“If not and we have to play Spain, there will be no need to fear them. Spain are one of the favourites for the World Cup, but we are not scared of anyone. We are going to play to win, or try to win.”

With Portugal beginning their World Cup campaign against Ivory Coast tomorrow, the Real Madrid winger acknowledged the threat of striker Didier Drogba but says his side must concentrate on their own game.

“We know all about Drogba, he’s a great player,” he added.

“But we can’t get preoccupied by him. We must concentrate on our team, our tactics and our ambitions. That’s the only way to win.”