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Gavi defends Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of Spain-Portugal World Cup clash

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 5, 2026, 8:10 AM

Last updated Jul 5, 2026

Gavi defends Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of Spain-Portugal World Cup clash

Summary

Gavi, the FC Barcelona and Spain midfielder, has backed Cristiano Ronaldo before the World Cup Round-of-16 match against Portugal on Monday. He dismissed criticisms aimed at Ronaldo, asserting that the Portuguese captain is one of football's greatest and still capable of influencing games. Gavi noted that he hasn't spoken to his friend Joao Cancelo ahead of their showdown, emphasizing the focus both players have on their national teams. He acknowledged Portugal as a formidable opponent and recognized the importance of learning from past encounters, specifically referencing Spain's Nations League loss to Portugal.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Gavi insists Ronaldo remains one of football's greatest players.
•Spain faces Portugal in the World Cup Round-of-16 on July 6.
•Gavi highlights the need to control midfield against Portugal's strengths.
•Both players are focused on their national teams, avoiding contact before the match.
•Spain aims to learn from last year's Nations League defeat to Portugal.

Latest Updates

8:10 AMYahoo Sports — Barcelona ace Gavi defends Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of Spain vs Portugal: ‘One of the best in history’

What they're saying

"
FC Barcelona and Spain midfielder Gavi has dismissed criticism aimed at Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of Monday’s World Cup Round-of-16 clash, insisting the Portuguese captain remains one of football’s ...
— Yahoo Sports

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