Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo is in top form and has an amazing ball-striking ability that is in a league of its own.
At least that's what Norwegian footballer John Arne Riise thinks ahead of Portugal's Euro 2012 qualifying match against Norway, set for June 4, 2011.
'One of the Top 2 Players In the World'
"Ronaldo is Ronaldo. He's one of the top two players in the world," Riise, 30, told reporters June 3, 2011. "I have great respect for him, and you must try to learn from the best.
"I have seen his free-kicks on DVD, both in slow-motion and slow-slow-motion. I've tried to emulate the way he strikes the ball in training, it's something I've been practicing but I have not got to that level yet."
Ronaldo, the captain of the Portuguese international team, expects a tough fight from Norway, but feels confident his team can prevail if all goes right.
"It will be difficult to break into their defense," says Cristiano, 26. "With great patience, we will succeed and if we play to our normal level, we can win."
Portugal has had a slow start in the Euro 2012 qualifying matches so far, drawing 4-4 against Cyprus in the opener followed by the one-goal defeat to Norway.
It will be a tough game, but I'm confident we'll play a fantastic game," says Cristiano. "When we are competing in a full stadium, we have the motivation to want to play well and play better."
Ronaldo has shaken off a disappointing end to this season with Real Madrid, which lost to FC Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League semi-finals.
Barcelona, led by winger Lionel Messi, eventually went on to win the 2011 Champions League title, defeating Ronaldo's former team, Manchester United, 3-1, on May 28.
Meanwhile, Cristiano has wrapped up a good season at Real Madrid. The 6'1" Portuguese international was thrilled after scoring the winning goal in overtime to secure Real Madrid's 1-0 victory against rival FC Barcelona on April 20, 2011. The goal gave Madrid its first Copa del Rey trophy in 18 years.
'I've Always Been a Competitive Person'
Ronaldo, who is known for his intense discipline, work ethic and competitive spirit, says his drive is inborn.
"I've always been a competitive person, it's a part of me," says Cristiano, who moved away from home to play soccer professionally at age 12.
"I grew up very quick because I lived away from my family," he recalls. "That's why I'm mature now and ready for anything."
Ronaldo made international headlines in 2009 when Real Madrid acquired him from Manchester United for a record $131 million transfer fee, making him the most expensive player in European football history.
Ronaldo, who played with Manchester United from 2003 to 2009, scored a staggering 118 goals for United in 292 appearances.
United boss Sir Alex Ferguson, who has praised Cristiano for his athletic skills and incredible work ethic, says Ronaldo is the best footballer in the world.
"His best is yet to come," said Ferguson. "He is better than Kaka and better than Messi. He is streets ahead of them all."
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