'Cristiano Ronaldo is not the same': Spain star makes bold admission before Portugal clash

Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon has acknowledged that Cristiano Ronaldo may no longer possess the same explosive qualities that defined his prime years, but insists the Portuguese captain remains one of football's deadliest finishers inside the penalty area.

The two European heavyweights are set to meet in a blockbuster FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash, with Spain aiming to halt Ronaldo's pursuit of another historic milestone on the biggest stage.

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Unai Simon explains why Ronaldo remains a major threat

Ahead of the highly anticipated knockout encounter, Simon admitted that the 41-year-old Portugal skipper has evolved as a player but warned that his finishing instincts remain as sharp as ever.

"The Cristiano we have at the World Cup is not the same as six or seven years ago, when he was at his peak. But we have to try to keep him as far away from the area as possible. In the Nations League final, he had a ball inside the area and scored. He has that goal-scoring ability that we would all like to have on our team."

The Spain goalkeeper stressed that limiting Cristiano Ronaldo's opportunities inside the penalty area would be crucial if his side hopes to progress to the quarter-finals.

Spain preparing for Ronaldo's experience

Simon also highlighted Ronaldo's intelligence and movement inside the box, explaining that experience has allowed the Portugal captain to remain decisive even as his physical attributes have changed over the years.

Cristiano Ronaldo heads into the clash after finally scoring his maiden FIFA World Cup knockout-stage goal during Portugal's dramatic 2-1 victory over Croatia in the Round of 32.

Spain are set to take on Portugal on Tuesday, July 7, at Dallas Stadium in Arlington. Historically, La Roja have enjoyed the upper hand in this rivalry, winning 18 meetings compared to Portugal's seven, while 16 encounters between the two sides have ended in draws.

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With a place in the quarter-finals on the line, Spain knows keeping the Portuguese legend quiet could prove to be the difference between advancing and heading home.