Ronaldo: Portugal deserve to win

Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has said his side deserved to win the Euro football championship quarter-finals encounter against Poland -- the match won by the Portuguese via penalty shoot-out.

Ronaldo was the first to take the penalty kick after the two sides were deadlocked at 1-1 in extra-time on Thursday, reports Xinhua.

"It was very difficult," he said on Thursday. "Poland did well -- they have a strong team and play good football. They're a very intense team, they're physical and experienced, but I think Portugal were better and created more chances.

"Penalties are always a lottery, but Portugal took their penalties better and were worthy winners."

Portugal will take on the winner of the match between Wales and Belgium in the semi-finals. The Real Madrid superstar predicted no easy opponents.

"Both are very difficult," he said. "Wales have had an excellent tournament. Belgium are also a very dangerous team that have done well with some good results. Either team would be complicated.

"Our objective was for Portugal to win. I want to congratulate my colleagues, our coach and technical team; we all did a fantastic job. Now on to the next opponent who we will prepare for and we will give our all."

--IANS

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