Switzerland defender Manuel Akanji is looking forward to facing Portugal captain, Cristiano Ronaldo.
Switzerland and Portugal will clash in the Round of 16 at the ongoing 2022 FIFA World Cup on Tuesday.
Akanji was denied the chance to face Ronaldo in the Manchester derby earlier this season.
Akanji has been in fine form since joining City for just £15m in the summer, and has taken the rhythm into the World Cup as he’s helped Switzerland navigate the group stages to set up an intriguing last 16 clash with Portugal.
When speaking with reporters, Akanji said “Even though he’s older now, he’s an incredible goal machine”
“You can’t give him any space in the penalty area. When he gets to the ball, the ball is usually inside. You have to be very close to him.”
Switzerland booked a place in the last 16 after beating Serbia in their final group game, knowing defeat would have sent the Serbs through instead. The 3-2 win saw plenty of flashpoints with 11 yellow cards issued, and Akanji explained how he tried to act as a calming influence on his teammates knowing Portugal were waiting in the last 16.
