Cristiano Ronaldo understands that Portugal have a big chance of missing out on the next World Cup.
La Selecao are due to play a must-win game against Albania, and Manchester United hero Ronaldo is aware that his nation could be ruled out if they were not to claim all three points on Saturday.
Carlos Queiroz’s side are walking on very thin ice, as they have only won one of their five Group One games and are third with six points, already seven points behind co-leaders Denmark and Hungry.
“We must respond positively because we are aware that in the case we were not to win this game, the qualification would be jeopardized,” Ronaldo said.
“We will not be playing the World Cup finals if we do not beat Albania.” The self-confident attacker added: “We are the best team of the group but we are yet to show it.
“Sometimes countries and clubs experience ups and downs, and this happened to us a few months ago. Albania is a tough test, as they have hired a new coach [Croatian Josif Kuze] and they will give their all to win.”
Portugal conceded a goalless draw at home to a 10-man Albania last October.