Ahead of tonight’s final clash in Portugal’s World Cup qualifying campaign against Malta, Cristiano Ronaldo has spoken words of courage, love, and unity for his country’s national football team.

The captain will not be present in Guimaraes to support Portugal in body. Cristiano Ronaldo is currently in Madrid where he must follow a fitness program in order to recover from his ankle injury as quickly as possible.

However, he sent out a strong message of support to the rest of the squad in a lovely statement that he released.

It said:

“I wished with all my heart that I could fight for Portugal with you all. However, as you know, an unfortunate injury has prevented me from doing so.

“Your great challenge this evening is to play a great game to take us to the World Cup in South Africa. Mine is to recover as soon as possible to help me team, Real Madrid, and our national team so as to achieve the goals that they have set for themselves.

“I have to fight to recover because I believe that is the best thing that I can do the help the national team every time I am needed.

“I want you to know that my heart will be with you in every minute of tonight’s game and that I will be proud of your efforts, just like everyone else in Portugal will be.

“I wish you all the best.”

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