Spain coach Luis de la Fuente praises Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of World Cup knockout

Spain’s national team manager Luis de la Fuente said he is a “declared admirer” of Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo, describing the striker as the best player in the decisive areas of a game. Speaking at a press conference in Arlington, United States, the day before Spain’s round‑of‑16 World Cup match against Portugal at AT&T Stadium, de la Fuente warned that “you have to keep an eye on him” and joked that he hoped Ronaldo would not play, though he expected he would.

He also praised Spanish talents such as Lamine Yamal and Mikel Oyarzabal, and expressed confidence in his defenders, saying they are capable of overcoming any opponent.