Portugal coach Fernando Santos stated that Cristiano Ronaldo’s fitness ahead of his team’s final group stage clash with South Korea remains in question. “I think it is 50-50 if he plays or not, we’ll see,” Santos announced during a news conference on Thursday.
According to Santos, Ronaldo’s availability for the South Korea game is dependent on whether or not he is able to partake in team practice on Thursday and if he shows that he is in good condition.
Ronaldo missed out on team training on Wednesday, instead opting to remain at the gym and focus on recovery and other specific exercises. Considering that his team has already qualified for the knockout stages, the Portugal captain could be rested even if he is considered fit for the clash.
Portugal defeated Ghana 3-2 in their opening group game after which they beat Uruguay 2-0. Currently, on top of the Group H standings, Portugal is guaranteed a top-two finish and thus progression to the Round of 16.
Santos expressed confidence in his players’ abilities while acknowledging the tough schedule they face with a game roughly every four days. PSG defender Nuno Mendes will miss the rest of the World Cup after sustaining a thigh injury during the Uruguay game.
