In a press conference before Spain's match against Portugal, Simon expressed concern about Cristiano Ronaldo. The 29-year-old goalkeeper stated that the most crucial task for Spain's defense is to limit Ronaldo's presence in the dangerous areas. "Ronaldo is not the same as he was six or seven years ago, when he was at his peak. But we must try to keep him away from the penalty area as much as possible," Simon said.

Cristiano Ronaldo (right) scores the equalizer, making it 2-2, against a helpless Unai Simon during the 2025 UEFA Nations League final between Portugal and Spain at Allianz Arena, Munich, Germany on 8/6/2025. Photo: AFP

The Spain goalkeeper recalled the 2025 Nations League final, where Ronaldo needed only one chance in the penalty area to score. Despite his age, the 41-year-old forward's goal-scoring ability remains among the best in the world.

"He possesses a goal-scoring instinct that any team would want, even Spain," Simon remarked. "Inside the penalty area, Ronaldo can create space, find shooting opportunities, or exploit through balls. With years of experience, he understands exactly where to be and what to do. If Ronaldo gets into the penalty area, he will make a difference. We must prepare for all scenarios."

The Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper also admitted there is no definitive way to neutralize Ronaldo. The best solution is to force the Portugal captain to play as far from the goal as possible. Although Ronaldo is 41 years old and no longer maintains the speed or burst ability of his prime, Simon believes it would be a mistake to underestimate the former Real Madrid forward.

Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon warms up before the match against Cape Verde in the opening round of Group H of the 2026 World Cup at Atlanta Stadium, Georgia, USA on 15/6. Photo: AP

Ronaldo played 81 minutes in Portugal's 2-1 comeback victory over Croatia in the round of 16. The Portugal captain touched the ball only once in the opponent's penalty area, a penalty kick that leveled the score at 1-1. He has scored three goals at the 2026 World Cup, the most for his team. In ten encounters against Spain, Ronaldo has scored four goals.

Ahead of today's 2026 World Cup round of 16 clash in Dallas, the two teams previously met in the 2025 Nations League final, where Portugal drew 2-2 after 120 minutes before winning in a penalty shootout. Simon believes their opponent will not change much in their playing style compared to their last encounter. Therefore, he wants his teammates to play focused and correct past errors. According to him, if Spain is eliminated, it must be because Portugal played better, not due to self-inflicted mistakes.

Simon enters the match against Portugal having not conceded a goal at the 2026 World Cup, extending his clean sheet streak to 519 minutes, surpassing the 517-minute record set by legend Walter Zenga at the 1990 World Cup. However, he has only made four saves, placing him among the lowest in the tournament.

Spain's goalkeeper trio, consisting of Unai Simon, David Raya, and Joan Garcia, is of high quality, with any of them capable of starting the match against Portugal.

In addition to Ronaldo, Simon also praised Lamine Yamal. The 18-year-old talent not only makes a difference in attack but also provides active defensive support. "People might see us differently, but Yamal helps the team a lot defensively," he added. "He is determined to prove himself at this World Cup."

Spain began their 2026 World Cup campaign with a draw against Cape Verde, a result that drew criticism for coach Luis de la Fuente's team. However, Simon believes those assessments were unfair, as Cape Verde later proved their capability by posing significant challenges to Argentina in the round of 16.

Hoang An (according to O Jogo)