Get ready, football fans! ⚽ The Euro 2024 quarterfinals are heating up, and all eyes are on the epic clash between Portugal and France this Friday in Hamburg. But there's more to this match than just two teams battling it out—it's the showdown of superstars: Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappé! 🔥
The 39-year-old Portuguese legend Ronaldo is gearing up for what he says will be his last European Championship, while France's rising star Mbappé, fresh off his move to Real Madrid, is set to shine on the big stage. 🌟
In a press conference on Thursday, Mbappé couldn't hide his admiration for Ronaldo, calling him a \"footballing legend\" and \"one of a kind.\" 🏆 He shared, \"Everyone knows just how much I admire Cristiano Ronaldo as a player. Over time, I've been lucky to brush shoulders with him, to get to know and chat with him. We're still in contact. He's always helping me—he keeps up with what's going on in my life and gives me tips. It's an honor for me, especially when we think about what he's done for the footballing world. Regardless of what has happened before or what happens after, he will be a footballing legend.\"
Mbappé's move to Real Madrid, where Ronaldo made history from 2009 to 2018, has fans buzzing about a potential \"passing of the baton.\" But the French forward is quick to set things straight. \"No, I think that he is one of a kind,\" Mbappé said. \"There is only one Cristiano Ronaldo; there will only ever be one. I'm following my own path. My dream of playing at Real Madrid is coming true. I hope that I will also be able to mark football, but I'm not going to write the next chapter of Cristiano Ronaldo's story. I hope I will be able to be one of a kind at Real Madrid and be completely different.\"
As the French team gears up for the big match, they face challenges of their own. Mbappé, who was the top scorer at the 2022 World Cup with eight goals, has netted only once in three games at Euro 2024—from the penalty spot. 🇫🇷⚽ The team is looking to find their rhythm, with no French player scoring from open play so far.
This match isn't just about goals; it's about legacy, admiration, and the sheer love of the game. Will Mbappé and France overcome their hurdles? Can Ronaldo lead Portugal to victory in what's rumored to be his last Euros? Only time will tell! ⏳
One thing's for sure: this is a football face-off you don't want to miss! Grab your jerseys, and let's get ready to cheer! 🙌🎉
Reference(s):
Mbappe praises 'legend' Ronaldo ahead of playing Portugal at Euro 2024
cgtn.com
