“That’s how we went on to win Euro 2016” - Cedric explains ‘advantage’ held by Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal over others at Euro 2024

Cedric Soares has highlighted a factor that can help Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo win the UEFA Euro 2024. The defender has claimed that Portugal possesses a team full of quality players. However, the former Arsenal full-back reckons that there's not much hype around Roberto Martinez's side.

Cedric thinks that the situation was similar when Portugal won the UEFA Euro 2016. He backed his country to replicate that in Euro 2024 and said (via Tribal Football):

"Portugal, at the moment, in terms of individual squad, I'd say we probably have one of the best individual squads. And we have an advantage in that we're a bit underrated. People aren't expecting us."

Cedric added:

"We have a bit less hype around us and I like that. That's how we went on to win Euro 2016. I believe Portugal can have a very good Euro."

Portugal were touted for bigger things in the 2022 FIFA World Cup. However, they were knocked out of the quarter-finals while Cristiano Ronaldo had a miserable tournament.

It's time for Ronaldo and Portugal to set the record straight. Robert Martinez's side won nine of their 10 Euro qualifiers. Ronaldo scored 10 goals and provided two assists in nine appearances. The focus will now be on recreating such a rich vein at the tournament.

Cristiano Ronaldo in spectacular form ahead of Euro 2024

Cristiano Ronaldo has been scoring goals for fun ahead of Euro 2024 as he has been on fire for Al-Nassr. The 39-year-old has scored 44 goals and has provided 13 assists in 44 appearances this season.

Ronaldo finished the Saudi Pro League 2023-24 season with 35 goals - the highest tally a player has ever managed in the competition in a single season.

The Portuguese forward is now set to play a record-extending sixth European Championship. Whether he can build on his tournament record of 14 goals and help Portugal win their second UEFA Euro in history remains to be seen.