Qatar 2022: Akanji Eager To Face Ronaldo
Emmanuel Igbokwe
Dec 05, 2022
Switzerland defender Manuel Akanji is looking forward to facing Portugal captain, Cristiano Ronaldo.
READ ALSO: My father's been having intercourse with me for eight years ÔÇò Teenager reveals
Switzerland and Portugal will clash in the Round of 16 at the ongoing 2022 FIFA World Cup on Tuesday.
READ ALSO: 2020 Olympics: You didn't disappoint Nigerians vs USA, Dare tells D'Tigress team
Akanji was denied the chance to face Ronaldo in the Manchester derby earlier this season.
READ ALSO: Chelsea finances: Blues announce biggest pre-tax loss of any club in Premier League history
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 machineÔÇØ
READ ALSO: Eddie Howe Under Pressure as Newcastle Face Summer Exodus and Uncertain Future
"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.ÔÇØ
READ ALSO: Breaking: See When Interstate Movement will Resume - Presidency
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.
Related Stories
David Raya is the best goalkeeper in the world, says Arsenal team-mate Kai Havertz after Sporting heroics
Sandro Tonali will choose Manchester United if they secure Champions League football
Chelsea finances: Blues announce biggest pre-tax loss of any club in Premier League history
Who has qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup? Who do England and Scotland play? Could Lionel Messi face Cristiano Ronaldo?
Eddie Howe Under Pressure as Newcastle Face Summer Exodus and Uncertain Future
Roberto De Zerbi: Tottenham in talks with ex-Brighton boss about taking over as head coach
""
— Emmanuel Igbokwe