Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have dominated the world of soccer for the past two decades, and with both players nearing the twilight of their careers, the debate over who is the better of the two continues to spark conversation. Ahead of Portugal and Denmark’s Nations League clash, Denmark’s head coach, Brian Riemer, shared his thoughts on the ongoing debate.
After his departure from Anderlecht in Belgium, Denmark appointed Riemer as their new coach. He is now set to manage his third and fourth games against Portugal. In an interview with O Jogo, Riemer offered a firm stance on Ronaldo’s presence:
“I think Cristiano is still one of the most dangerous players you can face. I think he’s in great physical condition, he’s not the same as he was before, he’s a different soccer player now. But that doesn’t make him worse, he’s different but he’s still a great player, we respect him a lot and we’re looking forward to facing him,” Riemer said.
When asked whether Ronaldo remains Portugal’s most dangerous player, Riemer responded decisively: “Yes, what a player! I think in the last three or four interviews I’ve done I’ve been asked: ‘Messi or Ronaldo?’ For me, Cristiano Ronaldo every day! I have always admired this man.”
The coach didn’t just emphasize Ronaldo’s impressive goal tally and titles but also highlighted the forward’s impact on the next generation. “He’s also a great example for young people with his professionalism, the way he handles his body and the way he’s been able to continue all these years at the highest level,” Riemer concluded.
Ronaldo turned 40 in February, sparking speculation about when he might retire, as he continues to perform at a competitive level. This doesn’t seem to concern Riemer, who views Ronaldo not only as a menace on the field but also as a role model.
Ronaldo and a key Nations League series
Portugal finished at the top of their group in the first phase of the Nations League with four wins and two draws from six games. Now in the quarterfinals, Cristiano Ronaldo has a chance to edge closer to his third major trophy with Portugal.
The first leg will take place in Denmark on Thursday, March 20, at Parken Stadium, with the second leg in Portugal on Sunday, March 23. The winner of this series will face the victor of the Italy vs. Germany matchup in the semifinals, scheduled for early June.