The World Cup draw in Moscow on Friday threw up some tantalising group-stage encounters for next year’s finals, including 2010 winners Spain’s clash against Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal.
2018 FIFA World Cup draw final: Nigeria in Group D with ArgentinaHere, we look at the best reaction from the countries bidding for World Cup glory in Russia.
The World Cup big guns
“Portugal have won an important title and, moreover, very recently. They are the champions of Europe… We are talking about the highest level.”
— Spain coach Julen Lopetegui on the prospect of his side taking on the European champions in Sochi.
“Spain are the natural favourites.”
— Portugal boss Fernando Santos talks up their Iberian neighbours ahead of the Group B showdown.
“Other groups are tougher, ours is more straightforward. (Coach) Tite has to be preparing his strategy.”
— Brazil’s 2002 World Cup hero Ronaldo to Brazilian TV after the five-time champions drew Switzerland, Costa Rica and Serbia in Group E.
What they said at the World Cup draw
