Rival Expresses Regret For Looking Up to Cristiano Ronaldo, 5 Years After Facing CR7 at WC – “Playing Against Him Was a Dream”

Cristiano Ronaldo has carved a legacy in the world of soccer that transcends mere statistics. It is an inspiration that echoes across the globe. Countless athletes have aspired to reach the pinnacle of their sport, often looking up to CR7. However, the dynamics shift when you step onto the pitch against him, as the awe switches into an intense battle. In an exclusive conversation, Iranian NT full-back Ramin Rezaeian opened up about his feelings about facing the soccer icon during the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

For the 33-year-old Iranian defender, the battle against Cristiano Ronaldo was so intense, that it forced him to temporarily forget his idol worship for the sake of his nation’s pride. Let’s uncover Rezaeian’s comments about his experience of facing Ronaldo.

Iranian full-back recalls his ‘dream’ battle against Cristiano Ronaldo

In the arena of the 2018 FIFA World Cup, where reality hindered dreams, Ramin Rezaeian’s encounter with Cristiano Ronaldo became the defining moment of his career. As Iran clashed with Portugal in the group-stage finale, the match ended in a thrilling 1-1 draw. But for Rezaeian it was more than a game; it was a realization of a lifelong dream. In an exclusive interview with Football360, Rezaeian opened up about the clash, reminiscing about the emotions that surged within him.

While the clash unfolded as a spectacle for fans, the 33-year-old full-back admitted that the dream encounter turned into a battlefield. He emphasized that facing Ronaldo was more of a ‘warzone’ than a moment for fandom. “I look up to Ronaldo and at the 2018 World Cup, playing against him was a dream come true, why lie? But during the game, it was a war and it wasn’t the moment to look up to him,” Rezaeian confessed.

This candid acknowledgment from the Iranian international showcases the dilemma that players often face when facing their idols. Although it was a dream come true for Rezaeian, it became evident that dreams sometimes come with unforeseen outcomes.

READ MORE: With Al Nassr on Break, Cristiano Ronaldo’s Mom Wishes ‘Luck’ to His Former Team Instead

Cristiano Ronaldo missed a penalty in the early second half of the clash, while Iran equalized with a penalty late in the extra time. Despite a stalemate, Portugal advanced to the last 16, ultimately suffering a defeat against Uruguay in the knockouts. Despite Iran’s disappointing exit, it was a memorable tournament for Ramin Rezaeian. How would you rate Cristiano Ronaldo’s performance in the 2018 FIFA World Cup? Let us know in the comments section!

WATCH THIS STORY: Cristiano Jr’s Insane Training Schedule