Manchester City's Bernardo Silva reckons a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-beat-manchester-united-to-go-top-of-premier-league-176716">derby win over Manchester United</a> has dealt a huge blow to their local rivals' title hopes, saying Jose Mourinho's men would need to be "almost perfect" between now and the end of the season if they were to win the Premier League.

City, the reigning English champions and Premier League leaders, opened up a 12-point lead over United with a 3-1 victory at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.

Goals early in each half from David Silva and Sergio Aguero put City in command at 2-0 up before United pulled one back through an Anthony Martial penalty just before the hour mark.

City, however, sealed victory four minutes from time when Ilkay Gundogan crowned a 44-pass move to slot home from close range.

This was United's fourth defeat in 12 games and left them eighth in the table.&nbsp;

Before kick-off City manager Pep Guardiola had insisted United would remain title contenders even if they lost, but Silva was not so sure.&nbsp;

"It won't be easy. Not only Man City -- (they are) 10 points from Liverpool, a lot of points from the other ones as well," Silva said.

"They need to be almost perfect and wait for the other ones to lose a lot of points. I think it won't be easy," the Portugal international added.

'Amazing'

Silva, who provided the final cross from which Gundogan scored, was proud of the way City responded after Martial gave United hope of a comeback.

"After their goal we knew they would have confidence to try to come for a second but I think our performance was amazing. We didn't concede one chance -- only the penalty.

"I think the team was very concentrated, very focused on what we had to do," Silva added.

City have dropped just four points so far this season, scoring 36 goals in 12 Premier League games and conceding a mere five.

But at the same stage last term they led the table by eight points and yet they are now just two clear of second-placed Liverpool.

"We know it won't be easy this season," Silva said. "Liverpool are doing a fantastic Premier League as well.

"We want to try to and have a bigger gap during the months of December and January, where you have a lot of games. We will work very hard for that and try to improve on this."

Meanwhile, United defender Victor Lindelof believes his side should have been more aggressive following Martial's goal.

"After we scored after our first goal we could have been a bit more aggressive and tried a little bit more," he told MUTV, United's own television station.

"After that goal they were quite nervous and it felt like we could have scored another, but they scored a third goal instead.

"We had quite a lot of possession, but we didn't really come in behind their defensive line into their last third of the pitch. We tried and it felt like we could've hurt them more."

Defeat let United as close to a Cardiff side in the relegation zone as they are to City.

But when this point was put to United manager Mourinho, he replied by saying: "I think we are not going to be relegated."

Manchester City's Bernardo Silva reckons a derby win over Manchester United has dealt a huge blow to their local rivals' title hopes, saying Jose Mourinho's men would need to be "almost perfect" between now and the end of the season if they were to win the Premier League.

Manchester City's Bernardo Silva reckons a derby win over Manchester United has dealt a huge blow to their local rivals' title hopes, saying Jose Mourinho's men would need to be "almost perfect" between now and the end of the season if they were to win the Premier League. City, the reigning English champions and Premier League leaders, opened up a 12-point lead over United with a 3-1 victory at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday. Goals early in each half from David Silva and Sergio Aguero put City in command at 2-0 up before United pulled one back through an Anthony Martial penalty just before the hour mark. City, however, sealed victory four minutes from time when Ilkay Gundogan crowned a 44-pass move to slot home from close range. This was United's fourth defeat in 12 games and left them eighth in the table. Before kick-off City manager Pep Guardiola had insisted United would remain title contenders even if they lost, but Silva was not so sure. "It won't be easy. Not only Man City -- (they are) 10 points from Liverpool, a lot of points from the other ones as well," Silva said. "They need to be almost perfect and wait for the other ones to lose a lot of points. I think it won't be easy," the Portugal international added. 'Amazing' Silva, who provided the final cross from which Gundogan scored, was proud of the way City responded after Martial gave United hope of a comeback. "After their goal we knew they would have confidence to try to come for a second but I think our performance was amazing. We didn't concede one chance -- only the penalty. "I think the team was very concentrated, very focused on what we had to do," Silva added. City have dropped just four points so far this season, scoring 36 goals in 12 Premier League games and conceding a mere five. But at the same stage last term they led the table by eight points and yet they are now just two clear of second-placed Liverpool. "We know it won't be easy this season," Silva said. "Liverpool are doing a fantastic Premier League as well. "We want to try to and have a bigger gap during the months of December and January, where you have a lot of games. We will work very hard for that and try to improve on this." Meanwhile, United defender Victor Lindelof believes his side should have been more aggressive following Martial's goal. "After we scored after our first goal we could have been a bit more aggressive and tried a little bit more," he told MUTV, United's own television station. "After that goal they were quite nervous and it felt like we could have scored another, but they scored a third goal instead. "We had quite a lot of possession, but we didn't really come in behind their defensive line into their last third of the pitch. We tried and it felt like we could've hurt them more." Defeat let United as close to a Cardiff side in the relegation zone as they are to City. But when this point was put to United manager Mourinho, he replied by saying: "I think we are not going to be relegated."

Bernardo Silva believes City's derby win may have ended United's title bid

Teenage sensation Kylian Mbappe told AFP on Thursday that Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi remain football's greatest players but that his own World Cup heroics could help crown him the 2018 Ballon d'Or winner.&nbsp;

Mbappe, 19, inspired France to World Cup victory in Russia with four goals. One of those came in the 4-2 final victory over Croatia as he became just the second teenager after Pele in 1958 to score in the championship match.&nbsp;

He was also voted Young Player of the tournament and has since become Ligue 1's leading scorer with 11 goals as Paris Saint-Germain run away with the French title.&nbsp;

Messi and Ronaldo have won the last 10 Ballon d'Or awards and Mbappe believes that they are still the sport's top A-listers.&nbsp;

"Nobody is doing better at the moment and we can't say it's the end of their era because it will only end when somebody else does better than them," Mbappe told AFP.&nbsp;

However, the young striker added: "I don't think one of them will win the Ballon d'Or this year because it was a World Cup year, and the World Cup takes precedence." While Mbappe thrived at the World Cup, Messi's Argentina and Ronaldo's Portugal bowed out in the last 16.&nbsp;

"But if you take the player in the purest form, there's nobody better yet. This year they were again the best two," added Mbappe.&nbsp;

"Messi finished the best goalscorer in Europe; Ronaldo was the top scorer in the Champions League." Mbappe was speaking to AFP on Thursday at an event organised by watchmakers Hublot, one of his leading sponsors. The last French player to win the coveted Ballon d'Or was Zinedine Zidane after the national team's 1998 World Cup victory.&nbsp;

"Frankly, I hope so (win the Ballon d'Or). We achieved something big. It would not be unjust because that is a strong word, but it would be a shame if a Frenchman does not win it.&nbsp;

"We made history and it would be nice to be rewarded." Croatia's Luka Modric, voted Best Player of the World Cup, remains favourite for the Ballon d'Or.&nbsp;

However, Modric is 14 years Mbappe's senior so the young Frenchman has time on his side.&nbsp;

He will also have time and opportunity to complete his journey from the tough streets of the down-at-heel Paris suburb of Bondy to a life of super-riches.&nbsp;

'Play to win' 
 
Mbappe, who will turn 20 just before Christmas, signed for PSG from Monaco for 180 million euros in 2017 in the second most expensive transfer of all time -- behind PSG teammate Neymar who cost the French champions 222 million euros.&nbsp;

Off the field, he seems destined to match Ronaldo in the commercial stakes. Will his initials "KM" match the brand power of Ronaldo's "CR7"?&nbsp;

"I don't know because CR7 is something big, he has managed to build his brand and become international," said Mbappe.&nbsp;

"Mine is not at this stage yet, I'm changing little by little." That development into the public consciousness saw him dominate the front page of Time magazine in October with the American publisher breathlessly showcasing the teenage as "the future of football".&nbsp;

Mbappe said that he will not be satisfied with winning just one World Cup. When asked what he wants to win next, he said: "All the World Cups that I can play.&nbsp;

"I play to win; if I play four World Cups then I want to win four. We go step by step. I have already won one. You have to prepare and win with your club and with the national team also.&nbsp;

"There are short-term goals before thinking about the 2022 World Cup. But the aim always is to win."&nbsp;

On being tipped to be the next true superstar once Messi and Ronaldo have retired, Mpabbe added: "I cannot control everything that is done and said.&nbsp;

"There is not just the pitch but everything around it must also be managed. It's not easy but I'm learning, I'm still learning. I have people around me who help me overcome the challenges one after the other."

Teenage sensation Kylian Mbappe told AFP on Thursday that Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi remain football's greatest players but that his own World Cup heroics could help crown him the 2018 Ballon d'Or winner.

Teenage sensation Kylian Mbappe told AFP on Thursday that Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi remain football's greatest players but that his own World Cup heroics could help crown him the 2018 Ballon d'Or winner. Mbappe, 19, inspired France to World Cup victory in Russia with four goals. One of those came in the 4-2 final victory over Croatia as he became just the second teenager after Pele in 1958 to score in the championship match. He was also voted Young Player of the tournament and has since become Ligue 1's leading scorer with 11 goals as Paris Saint-Germain run away with the French title. Messi and Ronaldo have won the last 10 Ballon d'Or awards and Mbappe believes that they are still the sport's top A-listers. "Nobody is doing better at the moment and we can't say it's the end of their era because it will only end when somebody else does better than them," Mbappe told AFP. However, the young striker added: "I don't think one of them will win the Ballon d'Or this year because it was a World Cup year, and the World Cup takes precedence." While Mbappe thrived at the World Cup, Messi's Argentina and Ronaldo's Portugal bowed out in the last 16. "But if you take the player in the purest form, there's nobody better yet. This year they were again the best two," added Mbappe. "Messi finished the best goalscorer in Europe; Ronaldo was the top scorer in the Champions League." Mbappe was speaking to AFP on Thursday at an event organised by watchmakers Hublot, one of his leading sponsors. The last French player to win the coveted Ballon d'Or was Zinedine Zidane after the national team's 1998 World Cup victory. "Frankly, I hope so (win the Ballon d'Or). We achieved something big. It would not be unjust because that is a strong word, but it would be a shame if a Frenchman does not win it. "We made history and it would be nice to be rewarded." Croatia's Luka Modric, voted Best Player of the World Cup, remains favourite for the Ballon d'Or. However, Modric is 14 years Mbappe's senior so the young Frenchman has time on his side. He will also have time and opportunity to complete his journey from the tough streets of the down-at-heel Paris suburb of Bondy to a life of super-riches. 'Play to win' Mbappe, who will turn 20 just before Christmas, signed for PSG from Monaco for 180 million euros in 2017 in the second most expensive transfer of all time -- behind PSG teammate Neymar who cost the French champions 222 million euros. Off the field, he seems destined to match Ronaldo in the commercial stakes. Will his initials "KM" match the brand power of Ronaldo's "CR7"? "I don't know because CR7 is something big, he has managed to build his brand and become international," said Mbappe. "Mine is not at this stage yet, I'm changing little by little." That development into the public consciousness saw him dominate the front page of Time magazine in October with the American publisher breathlessly showcasing the teenage as "the future of football". Mbappe said that he will not be satisfied with winning just one World Cup. When asked what he wants to win next, he said: "All the World Cups that I can play. "I play to win; if I play four World Cups then I want to win four. We go step by step. I have already won one. You have to prepare and win with your club and with the national team also. "There are short-term goals before thinking about the 2022 World Cup. But the aim always is to win." On being tipped to be the next true superstar once Messi and Ronaldo have retired, Mpabbe added: "I cannot control everything that is done and said. "There is not just the pitch but everything around it must also be managed. It's not easy but I'm learning, I'm still learning. I have people around me who help me overcome the challenges one after the other."

Kylian Mbappe: Ronaldo, Messi still best but won't win Ballon d'Or

Portugal again left out Cristiano Ronaldo, their all-time record scorer and most capped player, as coach Fernando Santos named the squad for this month’s Nations League matches against Italy and Poland on Thursday.

Santos previously omitted Ronaldo from the squad in September and October, saying the decision was taken by mutual consent as the 33-year-old was still adapting following his move from Real Madrid to Juventus.

“The only thing I will say about Ronaldo is that I hope he wins the Ballon d’Or award,” said Santos, referring to France Football magazine’s annual player of the year award.

"He deserves it and it would be an injustice if he didn't win."

Portugal visit Italy on November 17 and are at home to Poland three days later.

Santos did not say whether Ronaldo, who last played for Portugal at the World Cup in Russia, would be recalled for their following matches in March.

“It’s not just about Ronaldo, I have said that nobody is excluded,” said Santos. “It’s not worth creating a big fuss about it.”

"Only the future will tell us what is going to happen. I don't know what will happen between now and March. There will be a natural evolution... I don't have the gift of being able to guess the future."

Santos recalled four Euro 2016 winners who missed the previous callup -- Raphael Guerreiro, Jose Fonte, Andre Gomes and Joao Mario.

Portugal lead Group Three with six points from two games and a draw in Italy will see them through to the semi-finals.

Portugal again left out Cristiano Ronaldo, their all-time record scorer and most capped player, as coach Fernando Santos named the squad for this month’s Nations League matches against Italy and Poland on Thursday.

Portugal again left out Cristiano Ronaldo, their all-time record scorer and most capped player, as coach Fernando Santos named the squad for this month’s Nations League matches against Italy and Poland on Thursday. Santos previously omitted Ronaldo from the squad in September and October, saying the decision was taken by mutual consent as the 33-year-old was still adapting following his move from Real Madrid to Juventus. “The only thing I will say about Ronaldo is that I hope he wins the Ballon d’Or award,” said Santos, referring to France Football magazine’s annual player of the year award. "He deserves it and it would be an injustice if he didn't win." Portugal visit Italy on November 17 and are at home to Poland three days later. Santos did not say whether Ronaldo, who last played for Portugal at the World Cup in Russia, would be recalled for their following matches in March. “It’s not just about Ronaldo, I have said that nobody is excluded,” said Santos. “It’s not worth creating a big fuss about it.” "Only the future will tell us what is going to happen. I don't know what will happen between now and March. There will be a natural evolution... I don't have the gift of being able to guess the future." Santos recalled four Euro 2016 winners who missed the previous callup -- Raphael Guerreiro, Jose Fonte, Andre Gomes and Joao Mario. Portugal lead Group Three with six points from two games and a draw in Italy will see them through to the semi-finals.

Cristiano Ronaldo left out again by Portugal

The despair which followed Italy's defeat by Portugal a month ago has suddenly turned to unbridled optimism following Sunday's 1-0 stoppage-time win away to Poland in the Nations League.

Italian media agreed the performance was one of the best in the last few years as Roberto Mancini's new-look side dominated the match in Chorzow and created chances almost at will.

It was very different to the mood after Italy were outplayed by Portugal, prompting Gazzetta dello Sport to publish the headline "Italy always going downwards".

On Monday, the same paper boomed: "This is Italy".

"Finally, Italy win and convince," it added.

A headline in Corriere Dello Sport, meanwhile, simply read: "Bellissima."

Mancini was appointed with the job of rebuilding Italy following their failure to qualify for this year's World Cup, the first time they have missed the tournament in 60 years.

It was never going to be an easy task for the former Manchester City and Inter Milan coach.

Italy no longer produce world-class players in abundance and teams such Juventus, Napoli and AS Roma are dominated by foreigners, as Mancini pointed out last month.

But Mancini said there was still enough talent around to make Italy great again, even if it was going to take time.

It was a case, he said, of putting faith in younger and lesser-known players and having patience.

There were certainly some interesting choices in Sunday's line-up.

Left-back Cristiano Biraghi, who scored the winning goal, was relegated with Pescara two seasons ago and was making his third appearance for Italy at the age of 26.

With Italy struggling to break the deadlock, Mancini chose to bring on Kevin Lasagna for his international debut at the age of 26 rather than Lazio's prolific marksman Ciro Immobile.

Lasagna, whose flick on at the near post set up the goal, has little more than two seasons of Serie A experience.

"Five years ago I was playing in Serie D (the fourth tier) and now, I'm making my debut for Italy," Lasagna said.

"I put Kevin and not Immobile because he's stronger in the air and we needed a few centimetres," said Mancini

Another surprise choice was Cagliari's 21-year-old midfielder Nicolo Barella who made his debut in last Wednesday's 1-1 home draw with Ukraine and excelled on Sunday.

Mancini sent the team out in a 4-3-3 formation with no recognised striker.

Marco Veratti and Jorginho took control of the midfield and the attacking trio of Federico Chiesa, Federico Bernardeschi and Lorenzo Insigne caused Poland many problems.

"I wanted a team that plays at home and away with the same mentality," Mancini said.

"We are starting a new chapter but, in&nbsp;football, you need time and there are no magicians. We have simply started working and getting to know the players."

The despair which followed Italy's defeat by Portugal a month ago has suddenly turned to unbridled optimism following Sunday's 1-0 stoppage-time win away to Poland in the Nations League.

The despair which followed Italy's defeat by Portugal a month ago has suddenly turned to unbridled optimism following Sunday's 1-0 stoppage-time win away to Poland in the Nations League. Italian media agreed the performance was one of the best in the last few years as Roberto Mancini's new-look side dominated the match in Chorzow and created chances almost at will. It was very different to the mood after Italy were outplayed by Portugal, prompting Gazzetta dello Sport to publish the headline "Italy always going downwards". On Monday, the same paper boomed: "This is Italy". "Finally, Italy win and convince," it added. A headline in Corriere Dello Sport, meanwhile, simply read: "Bellissima." Mancini was appointed with the job of rebuilding Italy following their failure to qualify for this year's World Cup, the first time they have missed the tournament in 60 years. It was never going to be an easy task for the former Manchester City and Inter Milan coach. Italy no longer produce world-class players in abundance and teams such Juventus, Napoli and AS Roma are dominated by foreigners, as Mancini pointed out last month. But Mancini said there was still enough talent around to make Italy great again, even if it was going to take time. It was a case, he said, of putting faith in younger and lesser-known players and having patience. There were certainly some interesting choices in Sunday's line-up. Left-back Cristiano Biraghi, who scored the winning goal, was relegated with Pescara two seasons ago and was making his third appearance for Italy at the age of 26. With Italy struggling to break the deadlock, Mancini chose to bring on Kevin Lasagna for his international debut at the age of 26 rather than Lazio's prolific marksman Ciro Immobile. Lasagna, whose flick on at the near post set up the goal, has little more than two seasons of Serie A experience. "Five years ago I was playing in Serie D (the fourth tier) and now, I'm making my debut for Italy," Lasagna said. "I put Kevin and not Immobile because he's stronger in the air and we needed a few centimetres," said Mancini Another surprise choice was Cagliari's 21-year-old midfielder Nicolo Barella who made his debut in last Wednesday's 1-1 home draw with Ukraine and excelled on Sunday. Mancini sent the team out in a 4-3-3 formation with no recognised striker. Marco Veratti and Jorginho took control of the midfield and the attacking trio of Federico Chiesa, Federico Bernardeschi and Lorenzo Insigne caused Poland many problems. "I wanted a team that plays at home and away with the same mentality," Mancini said. "We are starting a new chapter but, in football, you need time and there are no magicians. We have simply started working and getting to know the players."

Despair turns to optimism as Mancini's Italy take shape

Storms packing nearly 180 kilometre-per-hour winds hit Portugal early Sunday leaving hundreds of thousands of people without power before carrying heavy rain on into Spain, authorities said.

Twenty-seven people suffered minor injuries, civil defence commander Luis Belo Costa told reporters.

The region around capital Lisbon and the centre of the country at Coimbra and Leiria were worst hit with trees uprooted, cars and houses damaged and local flooding reported.

Aveiro, Viseu and Porto in the north also suffered damage with rescue services reporting a total of 1,900 incidents.&nbsp;

The civil defence services said 324,000 people were left without electricity while more than 60 people had to leave their damaged homes and flee to safety.

Power was being restored across the north and centre of the country during the morning.

Leslie was dubbed a "zombie" hurricane as it first formed on September 23, only to meander through the Atlantic Ocean for weeks.

There were fears it could be the worst storm to hit the region in more than 150 years, but it weakened to a post-tropical storm before reaching the Portuguese coastline in the early hours of Sunday.

"The greatest danger has passed," Costa said. "The north and centre were the worst affected."

At Mealhada, in Aveiro district, the roof blew off an indoor sports stadium putting an end to the European final of the women's roller hockey competition.

Portuguese authorities had urged those living by the coast to batten down and stay indoors amid warnings of high winds which reached 176 kilometres per hour (110 miles per hour).

"I have never seen anything like it," one witness told SIC television in Figueira da Foz, 200 km (120 miles) north of Lisbon.

"The town seemed to be in a state of war with cars smashed by fallen trees," he said. "People were very worried."

Maritime authorities advised fishermen at sea to return to the nearest port and Portugal's TAP airline cancelled seven flights to and from Lisbon.

Only five hurricanes have ever arrived in this region of the Atlantic Ocean, and it had been feared Leslie could turn out to be the most powerful storm to hit Portugal since 1842.

One in 176 years

Over the past 176 years, only Hurricane Vince has made landfall on the Iberian peninsula, hitting southern Spain in 2005, according to weather records.

In October 2017, strong winds from Hurricane Ophelia, which travelled north off the coast of Portugal and western Spain, fed forest fires that killed around 40 people during a heatwave.

Ophelia then made landfall in Ireland as a violent storm, killing three people.

Spain's civil protection agency said the storms could still be "very strong locally" and that heavy rain was forecast for the north and east.

On Tuesday, intense rain sparked flash floods in the Spanish holiday island of Majorca, killing 12 people.&nbsp;

Storms packing nearly 180 kilometre-per-hour winds hit Portugal early Sunday leaving hundreds of thousands of people without power before carrying heavy rain on into Spain, authorities said.

Storms packing nearly 180 kilometre-per-hour winds hit Portugal early Sunday leaving hundreds of thousands of people without power before carrying heavy rain on into Spain, authorities said. Twenty-seven people suffered minor injuries, civil defence commander Luis Belo Costa told reporters. The region around capital Lisbon and the centre of the country at Coimbra and Leiria were worst hit with trees uprooted, cars and houses damaged and local flooding reported. Aveiro, Viseu and Porto in the north also suffered damage with rescue services reporting a total of 1,900 incidents. The civil defence services said 324,000 people were left without electricity while more than 60 people had to leave their damaged homes and flee to safety. Power was being restored across the north and centre of the country during the morning. Leslie was dubbed a "zombie" hurricane as it first formed on September 23, only to meander through the Atlantic Ocean for weeks. There were fears it could be the worst storm to hit the region in more than 150 years, but it weakened to a post-tropical storm before reaching the Portuguese coastline in the early hours of Sunday. "The greatest danger has passed," Costa said. "The north and centre were the worst affected." At Mealhada, in Aveiro district, the roof blew off an indoor sports stadium putting an end to the European final of the women's roller hockey competition. Portuguese authorities had urged those living by the coast to batten down and stay indoors amid warnings of high winds which reached 176 kilometres per hour (110 miles per hour). "I have never seen anything like it," one witness told SIC television in Figueira da Foz, 200 km (120 miles) north of Lisbon. "The town seemed to be in a state of war with cars smashed by fallen trees," he said. "People were very worried." Maritime authorities advised fishermen at sea to return to the nearest port and Portugal's TAP airline cancelled seven flights to and from Lisbon. Only five hurricanes have ever arrived in this region of the Atlantic Ocean, and it had been feared Leslie could turn out to be the most powerful storm to hit Portugal since 1842. One in 176 years Over the past 176 years, only Hurricane Vince has made landfall on the Iberian peninsula, hitting southern Spain in 2005, according to weather records. In October 2017, strong winds from Hurricane Ophelia, which travelled north off the coast of Portugal and western Spain, fed forest fires that killed around 40 people during a heatwave. Ophelia then made landfall in Ireland as a violent storm, killing three people. Spain's civil protection agency said the storms could still be "very strong locally" and that heavy rain was forecast for the north and east. On Tuesday, intense rain sparked flash floods in the Spanish holiday island of Majorca, killing 12 people.

'Zombie' storm Leslie smashes into Portugal, Spain

Portugal placed most of the country under red alert Saturday as Hurricane Leslie, which threatens to be the fiercest storm to hit the country since 1842, approached the coast.

The country's civil protection officials called on people along the coast to stay indoors, saying the most serious conditions were likely to be Saturday night and Sunday morning.

The Spanish authorities, meanwhile, were making their own preparations for the hurricane, which Spanish meteorologists expect to reach their territory early Sunday.

The Portuguese capital Lisbon is bracing for the first effects of the hurricane, with strong winds and rain expected at around 6:00 pm (1700 GMT) on Saturday, said the Portugese meteorological institute.

According to meteorological records, only five hurricanes have ever arrived in this part of the Atlantic Ocean. Hurricane Leslie could turn out to be the fiercest storm to hit Portugal since 1842.

Strong winds from Hurricane Ophelia in Portugal and eastern Spain fed forest fires that killed around 40 people during the heatwave in 2017.

Spain is still recovering recovering from the heavy rains that provoked a mudslide in the Mediterranean island of Majorca that killed 12 people Tuesday.

Portugal placed most of the country under red alert Saturday as Hurricane Leslie, which threatens to be the fiercest storm to hit the country since 1842, approached the coast.

Portugal placed most of the country under red alert Saturday as Hurricane Leslie, which threatens to be the fiercest storm to hit the country since 1842, approached the coast. The country's civil protection officials called on people along the coast to stay indoors, saying the most serious conditions were likely to be Saturday night and Sunday morning. The Spanish authorities, meanwhile, were making their own preparations for the hurricane, which Spanish meteorologists expect to reach their territory early Sunday. The Portuguese capital Lisbon is bracing for the first effects of the hurricane, with strong winds and rain expected at around 6:00 pm (1700 GMT) on Saturday, said the Portugese meteorological institute. According to meteorological records, only five hurricanes have ever arrived in this part of the Atlantic Ocean. Hurricane Leslie could turn out to be the fiercest storm to hit Portugal since 1842. Strong winds from Hurricane Ophelia in Portugal and eastern Spain fed forest fires that killed around 40 people during the heatwave in 2017. Spain is still recovering recovering from the heavy rains that provoked a mudslide in the Mediterranean island of Majorca that killed 12 people Tuesday.

Hurricane Leslie threatens to be the fiercest storm to hit Portugal since 1842, red alert sounded

Portugal's Bernardo Silva scored a typical individual goal as their new-look side recovered to win 3-2 away to Poland in the Nations League with an impressive performance on Thursday.

Andre Silva's strike and a Kamil Glik own goal put the European champions ahead by halftime, after Krzysztof Piatek had given Poland an early lead, and Bernardo Silva then got in the act early in the second half of the League A Group 3 game.

Poland substitute Jakub Blaszczykowski, making his 103rd appearance as he became his country's most capped player, pulled a goal back but it was not enough for the hosts.

It was also an unhappy 100th Poland appearance for Robert Lewandowski, who barely had a touch of the ball.

After two games Portugal top the group with six points, while Poland and Italy have one apiece.

Portugal, who are rebuilding their team after a second-round exit at the World Cup, left out a number of old favourites including Joao Moutinho, Jose Fonte and Ricardo Quaresma.

Captain and all-time leading scorer Cristiano Ronaldo was also absent by what coach Fernando Santos said was mutual consent, although he is expected to be recalled next year.

Piatek, scorer of nine goals in seven Serie A matches for Genoa this season, struck an early blow when he outjumped Joao Cancelo at the far post to head Poland in front from a corner in the 18th minute.

But after that, it was mainly one-way traffic as Portugal took control.

Andre Silva levelled in the 31st minute, turning in Pizzi's low cross following a well-worked move down the right for his 14th goal in 29 appearances.

Ruben Neves set up the second with a majestic long ball from inside his own half which caught out the Polish defence.

Rafa Silva got on the end of it and his first touch took him past goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski before Glik put the ball into his own net.

Seven minutes after halftime, Bernardo Silva collected the ball near the touchline, jinked inside one marker, ran across the edge of the penalty area and scored with a low shot past Fabianski.

Portugal continued to dominate even after Blaszczykowski's goal and Renato Sanches was twice close to a fourth for the visitors.

Portugal's Bernardo Silva scored a typical individual goal as their new-look side recovered to win 3-2 away to Poland in the Nations League with an impressive performance on Thursday.

Portugal's Bernardo Silva scored a typical individual goal as their new-look side recovered to win 3-2 away to Poland in the Nations League with an impressive performance on Thursday. Andre Silva's strike and a Kamil Glik own goal put the European champions ahead by halftime, after Krzysztof Piatek had given Poland an early lead, and Bernardo Silva then got in the act early in the second half of the League A Group 3 game. Poland substitute Jakub Blaszczykowski, making his 103rd appearance as he became his country's most capped player, pulled a goal back but it was not enough for the hosts. It was also an unhappy 100th Poland appearance for Robert Lewandowski, who barely had a touch of the ball. After two games Portugal top the group with six points, while Poland and Italy have one apiece. Portugal, who are rebuilding their team after a second-round exit at the World Cup, left out a number of old favourites including Joao Moutinho, Jose Fonte and Ricardo Quaresma. Captain and all-time leading scorer Cristiano Ronaldo was also absent by what coach Fernando Santos said was mutual consent, although he is expected to be recalled next year. Piatek, scorer of nine goals in seven Serie A matches for Genoa this season, struck an early blow when he outjumped Joao Cancelo at the far post to head Poland in front from a corner in the 18th minute. But after that, it was mainly one-way traffic as Portugal took control. Andre Silva levelled in the 31st minute, turning in Pizzi's low cross following a well-worked move down the right for his 14th goal in 29 appearances. Ruben Neves set up the second with a majestic long ball from inside his own half which caught out the Polish defence. Rafa Silva got on the end of it and his first touch took him past goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski before Glik put the ball into his own net. Seven minutes after halftime, Bernardo Silva collected the ball near the touchline, jinked inside one marker, ran across the edge of the penalty area and scored with a low shot past Fabianski. Portugal continued to dominate even after Blaszczykowski's goal and Renato Sanches was twice close to a fourth for the visitors.

New-look Portugal hit back to win 3-2 in Poland

On the eve of the football World Cup 2018, Spain encountered an unwanted chaos which might cost the "The Red Fury" in their opener match against arch-rival Portugal.

Just a day before the tournament, Spain's coach Julen Lopetegui was fired by Spanish football association. The association has appointed Fernando Hierro as the new coach.

The former coach Lopetegui has actively participated with team's training sessions and the team must have gotten into the comfort zone with him but this sudden change in leadership will have repercussions during football World Cup.

The sacking came a day after Julen Lopetegui was signed up as Real Madrid's coach. His record for Spanish national team has been outstanding as under his guidance Spain remained unbeaten in 20 games since 2016.

The signing seemed very unethical, resulted in Lopetegui ouster and now the impact of which will be seen in the World Cup opener against Portugal.

The Portugal - Spain football rivalry is one of the oldest in the game. It is also known as "The Iberian War" or "The Iberian Derby."&nbsp

Both teams have met on several occasions since their first match in 1921 and Spain have dominated Portugal on most times. Out of their 36 meetings (of which 8 matches were competitive), Spain and Portugal have won 18 and six matches respectively.

Spain and Portugal represent the strongest football nations in the world.

The history behind the Spain Portugal rivalry started in the 15th century and it continued when the Portuguese Restoration War was initiated against Spain, and Portugal regained its independence under the Braganza dynasty.&nbsp

In the 18th century (Napoleonic Era), wars were very often between the major kingdoms and Portugal and Spain.

Although, Spain have a better record in history against Portugal but with Cristiano Ronaldo leading from the front for Portugal and the ongoing mayhem in the Spanish team, Ronaldo's team have an upper hand in the crucial World Cup encounter which is scheduled to be played on June 15, Friday.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Although, Spain have a better record in history against Portugal but with Cristiano Ronaldo leading from the front for Portugal and the ongoing mayhem in the Spanish team, Ronaldo's team have an upper hand in the Spain-Portugal clash

On the eve of the football World Cup 2018, Spain encountered an unwanted chaos which might cost the "The Red Fury" in their opener match against arch-rival Portugal. Just a day before the tournament, Spain's coach Julen Lopetegui was fired by Spanish football association. The association has appointed Fernando Hierro as the new coach. The former coach Lopetegui has actively participated with team's training sessions and the team must have gotten into the comfort zone with him but this sudden change in leadership will have repercussions during football World Cup. The sacking came a day after Julen Lopetegui was signed up as Real Madrid's coach. His record for Spanish national team has been outstanding as under his guidance Spain remained unbeaten in 20 games since 2016. The signing seemed very unethical, resulted in Lopetegui ouster and now the impact of which will be seen in the World Cup opener against Portugal. The Portugal - Spain football rivalry is one of the oldest in the game. It is also known as "The Iberian War" or "The Iberian Derby." Both teams have met on several occasions since their first match in 1921 and Spain have dominated Portugal on most times. Out of their 36 meetings (of which 8 matches were competitive), Spain and Portugal have won 18 and six matches respectively. Spain and Portugal represent the strongest football nations in the world. The history behind the Spain Portugal rivalry started in the 15th century and it continued when the Portuguese Restoration War was initiated against Spain, and Portugal regained its independence under the Braganza dynasty. In the 18th century (Napoleonic Era), wars were very often between the major kingdoms and Portugal and Spain. Although, Spain have a better record in history against Portugal but with Cristiano Ronaldo leading from the front for Portugal and the ongoing mayhem in the Spanish team, Ronaldo's team have an upper hand in the crucial World Cup encounter which is scheduled to be played on June 15, Friday. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Unwanted chaos ahead of World Cup may mar Spain's chances against Ronaldo's Portugal

Portugal will be appearing at their eighth World Cup and sixth in a row. Their best performance was on their debut in 1966 when they finished third after losing to England in the semi-finals and they reached the semi-finals in 2006 before losing to France. They went out in the group stage in 2002 and 2014 and lost to Spain in the round of 16 in 2010.

<hr />
Coach:

Fernando Santos: The 63-year-old is a former defender who played for Estoril and Maritimo. After retiring, he intended to pursue a career in electrical engineering, in which he is qualified, but a twist of fate took him into coaching. He has managed all of Portugal's big three, Benfica, Porto and Sporting, and led Greece to Euro 2012 and the 2014 World Cup. He replaced Paulo Bento after Portugal lost their opening Euro 2016 qualifier at home to Albania, led them to the Euro 2016 title and has lost only once in 29 competitive internationals.

<hr />
Key players:

Cristiano Ronaldo: Portugal's captain, most capped player, and all-time leading scorer remain, at the age of 33, a fundamental presence for Portugal -- even when not playing, as he showed by encouraging the team from the touchline during the Euro 2016 final.

Some feel his habit of hogging free kicks and penalties is not healthy and that his presence is a burden for his teammates, but his record of 81 goals in 149 games speaks for itself.

Pepe: The linchpin of the defence for the best part of a decade although his rash tackles, explosive fits of temper and liberal use of gamesmanship make him many people's pantomime villain.

He let down the team when he was sent off in the first half of the 4-0 defeat by Germany in the 2014 World Cup but held the back line together magnificently in the Euro 2016 final against France. Born in Brazil and moved to Portugal as an 18-year-old.

William Carvalho: Known as "Sir William" by fans of his club Sporting, Carvalho was born in Angola and moved to Portugal as a child.

Physically imposing, he forms a defensive wall in front of the Portugal defence and is remarkably calm in possession, providing excellent distribution, though he sometimes looks cumbersome and slow.

<hr />
Form guide:

Portugal have won their last nine competitive internationals although their form in friendlies since qualifying has been more erratic, with two wins, a draw and an embarrassing 3-0 defeat by the Netherlands.

How they qualified:

Portugal topped their group on goal difference ahead of Switzerland. After losing to the Swiss in their opening match, they won their remaining nine fixtures.

<hr />
Prospects:

Along with neighbours Spain, Portugal appear to be favourites to progress from Group B which also contains Morocco and Iran. But facing Spain in their opener could complicate things as defeat would leave them playing catch-up. Their second match against Morocco will stir unhappy memories of a 3-1 defeat by the North Africans at the 1986 finals while the Iran match brings them face to face with their former coach Carlos Queiroz. Russia, Egypt, Uruguay or Saudi Arabia await in the second round while France and Argentina are among possible quarter-final opponents.

<hr />
Portugal's fixture

June 15

11:30 PM | Portugal vs Spain | Fisht Olympic Stadium, Sochi

June 20

05:30 PM | Portugal vs Morocco | Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow

June 25

11:30 PM | Iran vs Portugal | Mordovia Arena, Saransk

<hr />
Squad:

Goalkeepers: Anthony Lopes (Lyon/FRA), Beto (Goztepe/TUR), Rui Patricio (Sporting Lisbon)

Defenders: Bruno Alves (Rangers/SCO), Cedric Soares (Southampton/ENG), Jose Fonte (Dalian Yifang/CHI), Mario Rui (Napoli/ITA), Pepe (Besiktas/TUR), Raphael Guerreiro (Borussia Dortmund/GER), Ricardo Pereira (Porto), Ruben Dias (Benfica)

Midfielders: Adrien Silva (Leicester/ENG), Bruno Fernandes (Sporting Lisbon), Joao Mario (West Ham/ENG), Joao Moutinho (Monaco/FRA), Manuel Fernandes (Lokomotiv Moscow/RUS), William Carvalho (Sporting Lisbon)

Forwards: Andre Silva (AC Milan/ITA), Bernardo Silva (Manchester City/ENG), Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid/ESP), Gelson Martins (Sporting Lisbon), Goncalo Guedes (Valencia/ESP), Ricardo Quaresma (Besiktas/TUR)

<img alt="fifa 2018 Russia_0.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/sports/fifa%202018%20Russia_0.jpg" width="770" />

Portugal will be appearing at their eighth World Cup and sixth in a row

Portugal will be appearing at their eighth World Cup and sixth in a row. Their best performance was on their debut in 1966 when they finished third after losing to England in the semi-finals and they reached the semi-finals in 2006 before losing to France. They went out in the group stage in 2002 and 2014 and lost to Spain in the round of 16 in 2010. Coach: Fernando Santos: The 63-year-old is a former defender who played for Estoril and Maritimo. After retiring, he intended to pursue a career in electrical engineering, in which he is qualified, but a twist of fate took him into coaching. He has managed all of Portugal's big three, Benfica, Porto and Sporting, and led Greece to Euro 2012 and the 2014 World Cup. He replaced Paulo Bento after Portugal lost their opening Euro 2016 qualifier at home to Albania, led them to the Euro 2016 title and has lost only once in 29 competitive internationals. Key players: Cristiano Ronaldo: Portugal's captain, most capped player, and all-time leading scorer remain, at the age of 33, a fundamental presence for Portugal -- even when not playing, as he showed by encouraging the team from the touchline during the Euro 2016 final. Some feel his habit of hogging free kicks and penalties is not healthy and that his presence is a burden for his teammates, but his record of 81 goals in 149 games speaks for itself. Pepe: The linchpin of the defence for the best part of a decade although his rash tackles, explosive fits of temper and liberal use of gamesmanship make him many people's pantomime villain. He let down the team when he was sent off in the first half of the 4-0 defeat by Germany in the 2014 World Cup but held the back line together magnificently in the Euro 2016 final against France. Born in Brazil and moved to Portugal as an 18-year-old. William Carvalho: Known as "Sir William" by fans of his club Sporting, Carvalho was born in Angola and moved to Portugal as a child. Physically imposing, he forms a defensive wall in front of the Portugal defence and is remarkably calm in possession, providing excellent distribution, though he sometimes looks cumbersome and slow. Form guide: Portugal have won their last nine competitive internationals although their form in friendlies since qualifying has been more erratic, with two wins, a draw and an embarrassing 3-0 defeat by the Netherlands. How they qualified: Portugal topped their group on goal difference ahead of Switzerland. After losing to the Swiss in their opening match, they won their remaining nine fixtures. Prospects: Along with neighbours Spain, Portugal appear to be favourites to progress from Group B which also contains Morocco and Iran. But facing Spain in their opener could complicate things as defeat would leave them playing catch-up. Their second match against Morocco will stir unhappy memories of a 3-1 defeat by the North Africans at the 1986 finals while the Iran match brings them face to face with their former coach Carlos Queiroz. Russia, Egypt, Uruguay or Saudi Arabia await in the second round while France and Argentina are among possible quarter-final opponents. Portugal's fixture June 15 11:30 PM | Portugal vs Spain | Fisht Olympic Stadium, Sochi June 20 05:30 PM | Portugal vs Morocco | Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow June 25 11:30 PM | Iran vs Portugal | Mordovia Arena, Saransk Squad: Goalkeepers: Anthony Lopes (Lyon/FRA), Beto (Goztepe/TUR), Rui Patricio (Sporting Lisbon) Defenders: Bruno Alves (Rangers/SCO), Cedric Soares (Southampton/ENG), Jose Fonte (Dalian Yifang/CHI), Mario Rui (Napoli/ITA), Pepe (Besiktas/TUR), Raphael Guerreiro (Borussia Dortmund/GER), Ricardo Pereira (Porto), Ruben Dias (Benfica) Midfielders: Adrien Silva (Leicester/ENG), Bruno Fernandes (Sporting Lisbon), Joao Mario (West Ham/ENG), Joao Moutinho (Monaco/FRA), Manuel Fernandes (Lokomotiv Moscow/RUS), William Carvalho (Sporting Lisbon) Forwards: Andre Silva (AC Milan/ITA), Bernardo Silva (Manchester City/ENG), Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid/ESP), Gelson Martins (Sporting Lisbon), Goncalo Guedes (Valencia/ESP), Ricardo Quaresma (Besiktas/TUR)

FIFA World Cup 2018: A complete profile of Portugal

Portugal registered a 3-0 victory over Algeria in their final World Cup friendly, making a perfect return for Cristiano Ronaldo to the national squad after a two-game absence.

The Madrid forward took a break after the Blancos’ victory over Liverpool in the May 26 Champions League final.

During the game, Portugal forward Goncalo Guedes made the score 1-0 when he scored in the area off a headed pass by Bernardo Silva, who had received a long ball from William Carvalho.

The game also marked Ronaldo’s 150th appearance for his nation. The 5-time Ballon’Dor winner has scored 81 goals and provided 28 assists for his country.

As it stands, Ronaldo is the highest international goalscorer in football history, followed by rival Lionel Messi and Indian international Sunil Chhetri at 3rd.

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Highlights from Portugal's 3-0 win over Algeria this evening: <a href="https://t.co/6AgnhduDcR">pic.twitter.com/6AgnhduDcR</a>
— Marino Peixoto (@Marinovpeixoto) <a href="https://twitter.com/Marinovpeixoto/status/1004876737543659520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, Portugal stumbled to a 2-2 tie against Tunisia and a scoreless draw versus Belgium without the Real Madrid forward. &nbsp

The country's defence which looked ponderous in the previous matches coped well with Algeria's attack and goalkeeper Rui Patricio had to make only one save, from substitute Baghdad Bounedjah.

The Madrid forward took a break after the Blancos’ victory over Liverpool

Portugal registered a 3-0 victory over Algeria in their final World Cup friendly, making a perfect return for Cristiano Ronaldo to the national squad after a two-game absence. The Madrid forward took a break after the Blancos’ victory over Liverpool in the May 26 Champions League final. During the game, Portugal forward Goncalo Guedes made the score 1-0 when he scored in the area off a headed pass by Bernardo Silva, who had received a long ball from William Carvalho. The game also marked Ronaldo’s 150th appearance for his nation. The 5-time Ballon’Dor winner has scored 81 goals and provided 28 assists for his country. As it stands, Ronaldo is the highest international goalscorer in football history, followed by rival Lionel Messi and Indian international Sunil Chhetri at 3rd. Highlights from Portugal's 3-0 win over Algeria this evening: pic.twitter.com/6AgnhduDcR — Marino Peixoto (@Marinovpeixoto) June 8, 2018 × Earlier, Portugal stumbled to a 2-2 tie against Tunisia and a scoreless draw versus Belgium without the Real Madrid forward. The country's defence which looked ponderous in the previous matches coped well with Algeria's attack and goalkeeper Rui Patricio had to make only one save, from substitute Baghdad Bounedjah.

World Cup friendly: Portugal routs Algeria as Cristiano Ronaldo returns

Cristiano Ronaldo plays as a forward for the Portugal national team. He began his senior club career with for Sporting CP and in 2003, he was transferred to Manchester United.&nbsp;

In 2009, he moved from Manchester United to Real Madrid in a transfer worth £80 million.

Ronaldo was ranked the world's highest-paid athlete by Forbes in 2016 and 2017.&nbsp;

In 2008, he was given the responsibility of captaincy and led Portugal to their first-ever triumph in a major tournament by winning Euro 2016 against France. Ahead of FIFA World Cup 2018, here are some interesting facts about Ronaldo:

1. At the age of 15, Ronaldo was diagnosed with a racing heart, a condition that might have forced him to give up playing football. Although, he had an operation that used a laser to cauterize the area of his heart that caused the problem.

2. Ronaldo was named after former US President, Ronald Reagan, who was greatly admired by Ronaldo’s father. His full name is Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro.

3. He does not drink alcohol because it reminds him of the death of his father, who dies due to an overdose of alcohol.

4.&nbsp;He paid for the cancer treatment of a nine-year-old boy, and regularly donates blood, which is the reason he does not have tattoos.

5. His freekick speed is around 130 kilometers an hour, which means 31.1 meters per second.

6.&nbsp;That's massive! He lifts around 23,055 kg of weight during a training session.

7. Ronaldo signed to Manchester United in 2003 at the young age of 18 and became the franchises first ever Portugal's player. "We've had some fantastic No. 7s, Bryan Robson, Eric Cantona, David Beckham, some wouldn't want that jersey but his confidence was high even at 18. When he made his debut as substitute against Bolton he took the place by storm," said Sir Alex Ferguson as he handed Ronaldo the No. 7 Shirt.

8. Ronaldo has a fashion boutique named "CR7" based out of his hometown, Madeira, Portugal.

9. In June 2010 Ronaldo became the fourth footballer to be represented at Madame Tussauds waxwork in London and in 2007 his autobiography, Moments, was published.

10. He&nbsp;never revealed who the mother of his elder son Cristiano Ronaldo Jr.

In 2009, Ronaldo moved from Manchester United to Real Madrid in a transfer worth £80 million

Cristiano Ronaldo plays as a forward for the Portugal national team. He began his senior club career with for Sporting CP and in 2003, he was transferred to Manchester United. In 2009, he moved from Manchester United to Real Madrid in a transfer worth £80 million. Ronaldo was ranked the world's highest-paid athlete by Forbes in 2016 and 2017. In 2008, he was given the responsibility of captaincy and led Portugal to their first-ever triumph in a major tournament by winning Euro 2016 against France. Ahead of FIFA World Cup 2018, here are some interesting facts about Ronaldo: 1. At the age of 15, Ronaldo was diagnosed with a racing heart, a condition that might have forced him to give up playing football. Although, he had an operation that used a laser to cauterize the area of his heart that caused the problem. 2. Ronaldo was named after former US President, Ronald Reagan, who was greatly admired by Ronaldo’s father. His full name is Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro. 3. He does not drink alcohol because it reminds him of the death of his father, who dies due to an overdose of alcohol. 4. He paid for the cancer treatment of a nine-year-old boy, and regularly donates blood, which is the reason he does not have tattoos. 5. His freekick speed is around 130 kilometers an hour, which means 31.1 meters per second. 6. That's massive! He lifts around 23,055 kg of weight during a training session. 7. Ronaldo signed to Manchester United in 2003 at the young age of 18 and became the franchises first ever Portugal's player. "We've had some fantastic No. 7s, Bryan Robson, Eric Cantona, David Beckham, some wouldn't want that jersey but his confidence was high even at 18. When he made his debut as substitute against Bolton he took the place by storm," said Sir Alex Ferguson as he handed Ronaldo the No. 7 Shirt. 8. Ronaldo has a fashion boutique named "CR7" based out of his hometown, Madeira, Portugal. 9. In June 2010 Ronaldo became the fourth footballer to be represented at Madame Tussauds waxwork in London and in 2007 his autobiography, Moments, was published. 10. He never revealed who the mother of his elder son Cristiano Ronaldo Jr.

Cristiano Ronaldo is the world's highest-paid athlete: 10 interesting facts about the Portugal star

Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri is currently on a record-breaking spree. Recently, he scored a hat-trick in India's 5-0 win over Chinese Taipei at the Intercontinental Cup on Friday and now he has joined the ranks with legendary footballers Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo to become the third-highest active international goalscorer.

He surpassed USA international striker Clint Dempsey when he scored the hat-tricks and joint-third in the active goalscorers' list with Spain' David Villa.

Sunil Chhetri has scored a total of 59 goals in his illustrious career so far.

Now, level with David Villa (59), behind Cristiano Ronaldo (61) and Lionel Messi (64) in the list of an active international goalscorer.

Lionel Messi: 62

Cristiano Ronaldo: 61

David Villa: 59

Sunil Chhetri: 59

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/abuse-us-scream-at-us-but-come-watch-us-urges-indian-football-team-captain-sunil-chhetri-141860">‘Abuse us... but </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/abuse-us-scream-at-us-but-come-watch-us-urges-indian-football-team-captain-sunil-chhetri-141860">come</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/abuse-us-scream-at-us-but-come-watch-us-urges-indian-football-team-captain-sunil-chhetri-141860"> watch us,’ urges Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri</a>

"I am very happy when I score. I do not take it for granted. I am very fortunate to score so many goals for my club and country. I am very happy from inside," Chhetri said during a post-match press conference.

Sunil Chhetri has scored a total of 59 goals in his illustrious career so far

Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri is currently on a record-breaking spree. Recently, he scored a hat-trick in India's 5-0 win over Chinese Taipei at the Intercontinental Cup on Friday and now he has joined the ranks with legendary footballers Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo to become the third-highest active international goalscorer. He surpassed USA international striker Clint Dempsey when he scored the hat-tricks and joint-third in the active goalscorers' list with Spain' David Villa. Sunil Chhetri has scored a total of 59 goals in his illustrious career so far. Now, level with David Villa (59), behind Cristiano Ronaldo (61) and Lionel Messi (64) in the list of an active international goalscorer. Lionel Messi: 62 Cristiano Ronaldo: 61 David Villa: 59 Sunil Chhetri: 59 ‘Abuse us... but come watch us,’ urges Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri "I am very happy when I score. I do not take it for granted. I am very fortunate to score so many goals for my club and country. I am very happy from inside," Chhetri said during a post-match press conference.

After Ronaldo & Messi, this Indian footballer is the 3rd-most active international goalscorer

The mega event hosted by Russia will be keenly followed by thousands of fans around the world

FIFA 2018: All you need to know about 21st edition of football World Cup

Ever Banega ensured Argentina weren&#39;t derailed by Lionel Messi&#39;s absence as the World Cup contenders clinched a 2-0 win over Italy in Friday&#39;s friendly at the Etihad Stadium.

Messi reportedly suffered a&nbsp;groin strain in training on Thursday, so the Barcelona forward was an unused substitute as Argentina kicked off their preparations for the World Cup in June.

Ahead of a busy end to the domestic season and then the World Cup, five-time Ballon d&#39;Or winner Messi wasn&#39;t going to risk aggravating his injury.

Without their talismanic star, Jorge Sampaoli&#39;s side showed they have strength in depth with a solid display capped by late goals from Banega and Manuel Lanzini.

Having edged through to the World Cup thanks to Messi&#39;s treble in a 3-1 win over Ecuador in October, Argentina are focused on peaking in Russia, where they will play Croatia, Iceland and Nigeria in the group stage.

Clearly they need Messi to have any chance of lifting the trophy, but, with Sergio Aguero also sidelined by injury, Sampaoli will be encouraged by the performance of his understudies.

&quot;We played this game as a final,&quot; said Sampaoli, who is set to be without Angel Di Maria for next week&#39;s friendly against Spain after he suffered a thigh injury.

&quot;The team had a lot of stability and the collective level was very good.&quot;

Italy remain in turmoil after failing to qualify for the World Cup for the first time since 1958.

It was an emotional evening for the Azzurri as they played for the first time since their defender Davide Astori died of a suspected cardiac arrest earlier this month.

&quot;We suffered with their control of possession and lost some shape,&quot; Italy boss Luigi Di Biagio said.

&quot;We deserved more in the second half but let&#39;s not forget who we were up against.

&quot;The group must develop. There are a lot of youngsters who need experience.

&quot;We must realise this is a difficult moment for the team. We ask everyone to be patient.&quot;

Di Biagio is in charge of Italy on an interim basis and his first move was to persuade Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon to end a brief international retirement.

Buffon, winning his 176th cap, was quickly called into action as Di Maria tested the 40-year-old with a low strike.

Lack of enthusiasm

It took another good stop from Buffon to keep out Nicolas Otamendi&#39;s header.

Although Argentina and Italy have won six World Cups between them, there were large swathes of seats left empty as the Manchester public showed a lack of enthusiasm for two teams whose current squads are far from their finest vintage.

The stay-aways weren&#39;t missing much, with chances at a premium until Buffon made an alert save to deny Nicolas Tagliafico.&nbsp;

Buffon saved his best for the final seconds of the first half as he repelled a shot from his Juventus team-mate Gonzalo Higuain before Daniele Rugani cleared the rebound off the line.

After their tame opening, Italy improved in the second half and should have been ahead when Leandro Paredes&#39;s woeful backpass was intercepted by Ciro Immobile.

Immobile set up Lorenzo Insigne with just Willy Caballero to beat, but the Napoli forward fired wide.

The crowd began chanting for Messi to be sent on, but their appeals were in vain.

Chelsea keeper Caballero saved well from Immobile, Antonio Candreva and Insigne as Italy enjoyed their best spell.

But, in the 75th minute, Argentina punished Di Biagio&#39;s men for their lack of cutting edge.

A flowing move reached the edge of the Italy penalty area, where Sevilla midfielder Banega arrowed a low strike past Buffon to the delight of the watching Messi.

West Ham&#39;s Lanzini wrapped up the victory with a well-taken curling effort from 18 yards in the 85th minute.

Messi reportedly suffered a groin strain in training on Thursday, so the Barcelona forward was an unused substitute as Argentina kicked off their preparations for the World Cup in June

Ever Banega ensured Argentina weren't derailed by Lionel Messi's absence as the World Cup contenders clinched a 2-0 win over Italy in Friday's friendly at the Etihad Stadium. Messi reportedly suffered a groin strain in training on Thursday, so the Barcelona forward was an unused substitute as Argentina kicked off their preparations for the World Cup in June. Ahead of a busy end to the domestic season and then the World Cup, five-time Ballon d'Or winner Messi wasn't going to risk aggravating his injury. Without their talismanic star, Jorge Sampaoli's side showed they have strength in depth with a solid display capped by late goals from Banega and Manuel Lanzini. Having edged through to the World Cup thanks to Messi's treble in a 3-1 win over Ecuador in October, Argentina are focused on peaking in Russia, where they will play Croatia, Iceland and Nigeria in the group stage. Clearly they need Messi to have any chance of lifting the trophy, but, with Sergio Aguero also sidelined by injury, Sampaoli will be encouraged by the performance of his understudies. "We played this game as a final," said Sampaoli, who is set to be without Angel Di Maria for next week's friendly against Spain after he suffered a thigh injury. "The team had a lot of stability and the collective level was very good." Italy remain in turmoil after failing to qualify for the World Cup for the first time since 1958. It was an emotional evening for the Azzurri as they played for the first time since their defender Davide Astori died of a suspected cardiac arrest earlier this month. "We suffered with their control of possession and lost some shape," Italy boss Luigi Di Biagio said. "We deserved more in the second half but let's not forget who we were up against. "The group must develop. There are a lot of youngsters who need experience. "We must realise this is a difficult moment for the team. We ask everyone to be patient." Di Biagio is in charge of Italy on an interim basis and his first move was to persuade Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon to end a brief international retirement. Buffon, winning his 176th cap, was quickly called into action as Di Maria tested the 40-year-old with a low strike. Lack of enthusiasm It took another good stop from Buffon to keep out Nicolas Otamendi's header. Although Argentina and Italy have won six World Cups between them, there were large swathes of seats left empty as the Manchester public showed a lack of enthusiasm for two teams whose current squads are far from their finest vintage. The stay-aways weren't missing much, with chances at a premium until Buffon made an alert save to deny Nicolas Tagliafico. Buffon saved his best for the final seconds of the first half as he repelled a shot from his Juventus team-mate Gonzalo Higuain before Daniele Rugani cleared the rebound off the line. After their tame opening, Italy improved in the second half and should have been ahead when Leandro Paredes's woeful backpass was intercepted by Ciro Immobile. Immobile set up Lorenzo Insigne with just Willy Caballero to beat, but the Napoli forward fired wide. The crowd began chanting for Messi to be sent on, but their appeals were in vain. Chelsea keeper Caballero saved well from Immobile, Antonio Candreva and Insigne as Italy enjoyed their best spell. But, in the 75th minute, Argentina punished Di Biagio's men for their lack of cutting edge. A flowing move reached the edge of the Italy penalty area, where Sevilla midfielder Banega arrowed a low strike past Buffon to the delight of the watching Messi. West Ham's Lanzini wrapped up the victory with a well-taken curling effort from 18 yards in the 85th minute.

Messi isn't missed as Argentina down Italy

Cristiano Ronaldo hit two goals in stoppage time as European champions Portugal defeated Egypt 2-1 in a friendly international on Friday, winning his personal duel with Mohamed Salah who had put the seven-time African champions ahead.

Ronaldo, appearing in his 900th career match, made his mark to devastating effect as time ran out.

First, he pulled his team level with a header from a Ricardo Quaresma cross, before adding the winner in almost identical circumstances in the fourth minute of injury time.

However, the 33-year-old Real Madrid star had to wait for the VAR system to validate his goal after a suspicion of offside. His two-goal salvo took his Portugal tally to 81.&nbsp;

Earlier, Salah, who has shone at Liverpool this season with 28 Premier League goals, broke the deadlock in Zurich after 56 minutes.

After a quickfire exchange of passes, Abdallah El Said found Salah in space for his teammate to beat Beto in the Portuguese goal with a sweetly-timed left-foot strike from the edge of the area.

&quot;In the last minutes we were better, created four chances and showed great determination to turn it around. They showed that they did not want to lose,&quot; said Portugal coach Fernando Santos.&nbsp;

&quot;And with Ronaldo, it&#39;s about a goal and another goal.&quot;

Ronaldo had two first-half chances blocked as he tried to continue his impressive recent form which had seen him score 18 goals in his last nine La Liga games, including registering a 50th hat-trick.&nbsp;

Salah was replaced late in the game by Shikabala and Portugal sensed a chance to grab a share of the spoils.

Quaresma, meanwhile, saw a 72nd minute attempt saved by Mohamed El-Shenawy in the Egypt goal while Bruno Alves saw a close-range header from a corner drift wide of the goal.

Shikabala had a fierce shot saved by Beto diving high to his right before Alves&#39;s frustrations boiled over late in the game with a yellow card.

But with time running out, Ronaldo had the final say as the five-time Ballon d&#39;Or winner moved into third place on the all-time list of international goal scorers.

Legendary Hungarian striker Ferenc Puskas scored 84 goals while Iran&#39;s Ali Daei leads the list with 109 goals in 149 internationals.

Egypt, back at a World Cup for the first time since 1990, will play in Group A at the finals this summer with hosts Russia, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia.

Portugal are in Group B and will face Spain, Morocco and Iran.

Cristiano Ronaldo hit two goals in stoppage time as European champions Portugal defeated Egypt 2-1 in a friendly international on Friday, winning his personal duel with Mohamed Salah who had put the seven-time African champions ahead

Cristiano Ronaldo hit two goals in stoppage time as European champions Portugal defeated Egypt 2-1 in a friendly international on Friday, winning his personal duel with Mohamed Salah who had put the seven-time African champions ahead. Ronaldo, appearing in his 900th career match, made his mark to devastating effect as time ran out. First, he pulled his team level with a header from a Ricardo Quaresma cross, before adding the winner in almost identical circumstances in the fourth minute of injury time. However, the 33-year-old Real Madrid star had to wait for the VAR system to validate his goal after a suspicion of offside. His two-goal salvo took his Portugal tally to 81. Earlier, Salah, who has shone at Liverpool this season with 28 Premier League goals, broke the deadlock in Zurich after 56 minutes. After a quickfire exchange of passes, Abdallah El Said found Salah in space for his teammate to beat Beto in the Portuguese goal with a sweetly-timed left-foot strike from the edge of the area. "In the last minutes we were better, created four chances and showed great determination to turn it around. They showed that they did not want to lose," said Portugal coach Fernando Santos. "And with Ronaldo, it's about a goal and another goal." Ronaldo had two first-half chances blocked as he tried to continue his impressive recent form which had seen him score 18 goals in his last nine La Liga games, including registering a 50th hat-trick. Salah was replaced late in the game by Shikabala and Portugal sensed a chance to grab a share of the spoils. Quaresma, meanwhile, saw a 72nd minute attempt saved by Mohamed El-Shenawy in the Egypt goal while Bruno Alves saw a close-range header from a corner drift wide of the goal. Shikabala had a fierce shot saved by Beto diving high to his right before Alves's frustrations boiled over late in the game with a yellow card. But with time running out, Ronaldo had the final say as the five-time Ballon d'Or winner moved into third place on the all-time list of international goal scorers. Legendary Hungarian striker Ferenc Puskas scored 84 goals while Iran's Ali Daei leads the list with 109 goals in 149 internationals. Egypt, back at a World Cup for the first time since 1990, will play in Group A at the finals this summer with hosts Russia, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia. Portugal are in Group B and will face Spain, Morocco and Iran.

Ronaldo's last-gasp two-goal show steals Salah limelight

Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed the secret of his success ahead of the FIFA World Cup.

In a recent media interaction, he said, &quot;We should always believe we are the best.&quot;

&quot;You need to think big. I always believe that nobody is better than me, out on the pitch at least,&quot; he said.

His believes that&nbsp;nobody is better than him on the pitch at least. He also requested other Portuguese players to go with the same philosophy.

The Real Madrid star made the comments as he accepted the Portuguese player of the year award in Lisbon.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/Cristiano?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Cristiano</a> Ronaldo - Portuguese Player of the Year 2016 <a href="https://t.co/BAbPoGqjec">pic.twitter.com/BAbPoGqjec</a>
&mdash; Zayddd (@MZse7en) <a href="https://twitter.com/MZse7en/status/844019669711405056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Ronaldo&nbsp;led Portugal to the Euro 2016 title&nbsp;is now turning his gaze to the 2018 World Cup.

Five-time&nbsp;Ballon d&#39;Or winner said, &quot;On a personal and collective level, I have had a dream year. I won five trophies (Champions League, UEFA Supercup, World Club Cup, Spanish league title and the Spanish Supercup), the Ballon d&#39;Or and the FIFA &#39;Best&#39; title.&quot;

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&quot;I always believe I am the best, whatever they say. And then I show it on the field.&quot;<a href="https://twitter.com/Cristiano?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Cristiano</a> after being named Portuguese Player of the Year for 2017 ???????????? <a href="https://t.co/DN0Vv7VgAr">pic.twitter.com/DN0Vv7VgAr</a>
&mdash; FIFA World Cup ???? (@FIFAWorldCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/FIFAWorldCup/status/976016168925396992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The Real Madrid star made the comments as he accepted the Portuguese player of the year award in Lisbon

Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed the secret of his success ahead of the FIFA World Cup. In a recent media interaction, he said, "We should always believe we are the best." "You need to think big. I always believe that nobody is better than me, out on the pitch at least," he said. His believes that nobody is better than him on the pitch at least. He also requested other Portuguese players to go with the same philosophy. The Real Madrid star made the comments as he accepted the Portuguese player of the year award in Lisbon. @Cristiano Ronaldo - Portuguese Player of the Year 2016 pic.twitter.com/BAbPoGqjec — Zayddd (@MZse7en) March 21, 2017 × Ronaldo led Portugal to the Euro 2016 title is now turning his gaze to the 2018 World Cup. Five-time Ballon d'Or winner said, "On a personal and collective level, I have had a dream year. I won five trophies (Champions League, UEFA Supercup, World Club Cup, Spanish league title and the Spanish Supercup), the Ballon d'Or and the FIFA 'Best' title." "I always believe I am the best, whatever they say. And then I show it on the field."@Cristiano after being named Portuguese Player of the Year for 2017 ???????????? pic.twitter.com/DN0Vv7VgAr — FIFA World Cup ???? (@FIFAWorldCup) March 20, 2018 ×

Nobody better than me on the pitch: Cristiano Ronaldo

Obidos&#39;s chocolate fair is not a regular one, the Portuguese town displayed the priciest chocolate last night at the fair.

Priced at 7,728 euros ($9,489), the limited edition bonbons were covered in edible gold and filled saffron threads, white truffle, vanilla from Madagascar and gold flakes.

The precious pockets of sweetness were guarded by two uniformed men.

<iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iShy1UqDZHs" width="560"></iframe>

Daniel Gomes, the creator of the chocolates, noted that his diamond-shaped creation was certified as the world&#39;s most expensive by the Guinness Book of Records.&nbsp;

The chocolate&#39;s crown-shaped box is decorated with 5,500 Swarovski crystals and carries personalised pincers.

(With inputs from Reuters)

The precious pockets of sweetness were guarded by two uniformed men

Obidos's chocolate fair is not a regular one, the Portuguese town displayed the priciest chocolate last night at the fair. Priced at 7,728 euros ($9,489), the limited edition bonbons were covered in edible gold and filled saffron threads, white truffle, vanilla from Madagascar and gold flakes. The precious pockets of sweetness were guarded by two uniformed men. Daniel Gomes, the creator of the chocolates, noted that his diamond-shaped creation was certified as the world's most expensive by the Guinness Book of Records. The chocolate's crown-shaped box is decorated with 5,500 Swarovski crystals and carries personalised pincers. (With inputs from Reuters)

Portuguese chocolate fair displays world's priciest sweet marvels

A&nbsp; major fire and stampede in a local leisure association in the town of Vila Nova da Rainha in northern Portugal has left eight people dead and dozens injured on Saturday.&nbsp;

According to Mayor Jose Antonio de Jesus, the fire occurred at a two-story gathering place attended by 60 people who had been watching and participating in a card tournament.&nbsp;

&quot;Several dozen people have been injured, some lightly and others gravely, and are still being assisted,&quot; he said.

The cause of the fire has yet to be disclosed, although, firefighters at the spot said that it happened due to the explosion of a heating boiler.&nbsp;

Dozens of firefighters and two rescue helicopters were deployed to tackle the blaze and help people vacate the spot, which lead to the stampede, media reports said.&nbsp;

The cause of the fire has yet to be disclosed, although, firefighters at the spot said that it happened due to an explosion of a heating boiler.

A major fire and stampede in a local leisure association in the town of Vila Nova da Rainha in northern Portugal has left eight people dead and dozens injured on Saturday. According to Mayor Jose Antonio de Jesus, the fire occurred at a two-story gathering place attended by 60 people who had been watching and participating in a card tournament. "Several dozen people have been injured, some lightly and others gravely, and are still being assisted," he said. The cause of the fire has yet to be disclosed, although, firefighters at the spot said that it happened due to the explosion of a heating boiler. Dozens of firefighters and two rescue helicopters were deployed to tackle the blaze and help people vacate the spot, which lead to the stampede, media reports said.

8 dead, dozens injured in fire, stampede in Portugal

Indian&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Washington&nbsp;earlier today on the second leg of his three-nation tour for his first bilateral meeting with US President Donald Trump.

Soon after his arrival, he met people from the Indian community at the Joint Base Andrews in Washington&nbsp;DC.

Earlier, Modi met his Portuguese&nbsp;counterpart&nbsp;Antonio Costa and&nbsp;signed new agreements in taxation, science, youth affairs and sport.

The Portuguese Prime Minister deviated from protocol and went to the airport to see the Indian Prime Minister off.

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Concluding a historic visit to Portugal. Deviating from Protocol, PM <a href="https://twitter.com/antoniocostapm">@antoniocostapm</a> see off PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi">@narendramodi</a> , a warm goodbye <a href="https://t.co/BwH9vTp2H5">pic.twitter.com/BwH9vTp2H5</a>
&mdash; Gopal Baglay (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/878670763246538752">June 24, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Modi is scheduled to meet&nbsp;Trump on Monday at the White House.&nbsp;

The US President, Donald Trump, in a tweet, said that he is looking forward to welcoming&nbsp;the Indian Prime Minister to White House and there are important strategic issues that have to be discussed with Modi whom he called a &quot;true friend&quot;.

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Look forward to welcoming India&#39;s PM Modi to <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse">@WhiteHouse</a> on Monday. Important strategic issues to discuss with a true friend!
&mdash; President Trump (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/878695978601254913">June 24, 2017</a></blockquote>
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The visit has already gained strategic depth with the US approving the sale of 22 Predator Guardian drones to India, a deal worth close to $2 billion.

The two leaders are expected to strengthen the partnership between the two countries further.

Prime Minister Modi had said that the visit was aimed at building a forward-looking vision for the Indo-US bilateral partnership.

&quot;My USA visit is aimed at deepening ties between our nations. Strong India-USA ties benefit our nations &amp; the world,&quot; he tweeted.

Trump and Modi have spoken twice over the phone after the former assumed office in January 2017. This will be their first personal meeting.

The Indian Prime Minister will also meet prominent American CEOs and interact with the Indian diaspora in US.

US President Donald Trump would host him for a dinner at the White House on Monday.&nbsp;

About his US visit, Prime Minister Modi had said that the visit was aimed at building a forward looking vision for the Indo-US bilateral partnership

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Washington earlier today on the second leg of his three-nation tour for his first bilateral meeting with US President Donald Trump. Soon after his arrival, he met people from the Indian community at the Joint Base Andrews in Washington DC. Earlier, Modi met his Portuguese counterpart Antonio Costa and signed new agreements in taxation, science, youth affairs and sport. The Portuguese Prime Minister deviated from protocol and went to the airport to see the Indian Prime Minister off. Concluding a historic visit to Portugal. Deviating from Protocol, PM @antoniocostapm see off PM @narendramodi , a warm goodbye pic.twitter.com/BwH9vTp2H5 — Gopal Baglay (@MEAIndia) June 24, 2017 × Modi is scheduled to meet Trump on Monday at the White House. The US President, Donald Trump, in a tweet, said that he is looking forward to welcoming the Indian Prime Minister to White House and there are important strategic issues that have to be discussed with Modi whom he called a "true friend". Look forward to welcoming India's PM Modi to @WhiteHouse on Monday. Important strategic issues to discuss with a true friend! — President Trump (@POTUS) June 24, 2017 × The visit has already gained strategic depth with the US approving the sale of 22 Predator Guardian drones to India, a deal worth close to $2 billion. The two leaders are expected to strengthen the partnership between the two countries further. Prime Minister Modi had said that the visit was aimed at building a forward-looking vision for the Indo-US bilateral partnership. "My USA visit is aimed at deepening ties between our nations. Strong India-USA ties benefit our nations & the world," he tweeted. Trump and Modi have spoken twice over the phone after the former assumed office in January 2017. This will be their first personal meeting. The Indian Prime Minister will also meet prominent American CEOs and interact with the Indian diaspora in US. US President Donald Trump would host him for a dinner at the White House on Monday.

PM Narendra Modi arrives in Washington ahead of meeting with Trump

Raging forest fires in central Portugal have killed at least 62 people, most of whom burnt to death in their cars, and injured scores of others, the government said Sunday.

Nearly 600 firefighters and 160 vehicles were dispatched late Saturday to tackle the blaze, which broke out in the afternoon in the municipality of Pedrogao Grande, about 50 kilometres (30 miles) from Coimbra, before spreading fast across several fronts.&nbsp;

&quot;Unfortunately, this seems to be the greatest tragedy we have seen in recent years in terms of forest fires,&quot; a visibly moved Prime Minister Antonio Costa said.

&quot;The number of fatalities could still rise,&quot; he said at the Civil Protection headquarters near Lisbon.&nbsp;

&quot;The priority now is to save those people who could still be in danger.&quot;

The European Union said it would provide firefighting planes following a request from Lisbon.

&quot;France has offered three planes through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism and they will be quickly sent to assist the local emergency efforts,&quot; EU Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management Christos Stylianides said.

Portugal was sweltering under a severe heatwave across the weekend, with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) in several regions.

Some 60 forest fires broke out across the country during the night, with around 1,700 firefighters battling to put them out.&nbsp;

Secretary of State for the Interior Jorge Gomes said 57 people burned to death, mostly trapped in their cars engulfed by flames in the Leiria region. At least 59 were injured.&nbsp;

&quot;The fire is still raging on four fronts,&quot; he said, of which two were spreading &quot;violently&quot;.

&quot;It is difficult to say if they were fleeing the flames or were taken by surprise,&quot; Gomes said, speaking of the dead.

National mourning&nbsp;

Portugal has announced three-day mourning over the deadly blaze.

Dry thunderstorms were thought to have been the cause of the fatal blaze, according to the prime minister.

A number of villages were affected by the main fire and homes were evacuated. Some were sheltered in neighbouring areas.

&quot;There are people who arrived saying they didn&#39;t want to die in their homes,&quot; Ricardo Tristao told AFP.

Officials were not immediately able to comment on the extent of the damage.

Spain dispatched two water-bombing planes on Sunday morning to aid the Portuguese fire service on the ground, Costa said.

He added a period of national mourning would be announced shortly.

&quot;My thoughts are with the victims in Portugal,&quot; EU commission head Jean-Claude Juncker tweeted. &quot;I commend the bravery of the firefighters. EU civil protection mechanism activated &amp; will help.&quot;

President Marcelo Rebelo went to the Leiria region to meet families of the victims, &quot;sharing their pain in the name of all the Portuguese people,&quot; he said.&nbsp;

Firefighters did &quot;all they could&quot; when faced with the blaze, he added.

Dozens of people who fled their homes were taken in by residents of the nearby municipality of Ansiao.&nbsp;

&quot;There are people who arrived saying they didn&#39;t want to die in their homes, which were surrounded by flames,&quot; Ansiao resident Ricardo Tristao told reporters.

Portugal was hit by a series of fires last year which devastated more than 100,000 hectares (1,000 square kilometres) of the mainland.&nbsp;

Fires on the tourist island of Madeira in August killed three people, while over the course of 2016 around 40 homes were destroyed and 5,400 hectares of land burned.&nbsp;

(AFP)

Portugal declares three days of mourning over deadly forest blaze

Raging forest fires in central Portugal have killed at least 62 people, most of whom burnt to death in their cars, and injured scores of others, the government said Sunday. Nearly 600 firefighters and 160 vehicles were dispatched late Saturday to tackle the blaze, which broke out in the afternoon in the municipality of Pedrogao Grande, about 50 kilometres (30 miles) from Coimbra, before spreading fast across several fronts. "Unfortunately, this seems to be the greatest tragedy we have seen in recent years in terms of forest fires," a visibly moved Prime Minister Antonio Costa said. "The number of fatalities could still rise," he said at the Civil Protection headquarters near Lisbon. "The priority now is to save those people who could still be in danger." The European Union said it would provide firefighting planes following a request from Lisbon. "France has offered three planes through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism and they will be quickly sent to assist the local emergency efforts," EU Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management Christos Stylianides said. Portugal was sweltering under a severe heatwave across the weekend, with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) in several regions. Some 60 forest fires broke out across the country during the night, with around 1,700 firefighters battling to put them out. Secretary of State for the Interior Jorge Gomes said 57 people burned to death, mostly trapped in their cars engulfed by flames in the Leiria region. At least 59 were injured. "The fire is still raging on four fronts," he said, of which two were spreading "violently". "It is difficult to say if they were fleeing the flames or were taken by surprise," Gomes said, speaking of the dead. National mourning Portugal has announced three-day mourning over the deadly blaze. Dry thunderstorms were thought to have been the cause of the fatal blaze, according to the prime minister. A number of villages were affected by the main fire and homes were evacuated. Some were sheltered in neighbouring areas. "There are people who arrived saying they didn't want to die in their homes," Ricardo Tristao told AFP. Officials were not immediately able to comment on the extent of the damage. Spain dispatched two water-bombing planes on Sunday morning to aid the Portuguese fire service on the ground, Costa said. He added a period of national mourning would be announced shortly. "My thoughts are with the victims in Portugal," EU commission head Jean-Claude Juncker tweeted. "I commend the bravery of the firefighters. EU civil protection mechanism activated & will help." President Marcelo Rebelo went to the Leiria region to meet families of the victims, "sharing their pain in the name of all the Portuguese people," he said. Firefighters did "all they could" when faced with the blaze, he added. Dozens of people who fled their homes were taken in by residents of the nearby municipality of Ansiao. "There are people who arrived saying they didn't want to die in their homes, which were surrounded by flames," Ansiao resident Ricardo Tristao told reporters. Portugal was hit by a series of fires last year which devastated more than 100,000 hectares (1,000 square kilometres) of the mainland. Fires on the tourist island of Madeira in August killed three people, while over the course of 2016 around 40 homes were destroyed and 5,400 hectares of land burned. (AFP)

Portugal forest fire: Death toll mounts to 62

Cristiano Ronaldo had an international airport renamed in his honour on Wednesday but it was a newly unveiled bust of him that soon became a major talking point.

Five thousand screaming fans, the Portuguese talisman himself and the country&#39;s prime minister and the president were all in attendance at the airport of Madeira, the island where Ronaldo was born.

&quot;To see this airport bear my name is a very special thing,&quot; said Ronaldo, 32, who skippered Portugal to victory in the European championships last year. 
&quot;Everyone knows I am proud of my roots.&quot;

Real Madrid star Ronaldo, speaking at a naming ceremony also attended by his family, added: &quot;I didn&#39;t ask for this but I&#39;m not a hypocrite and I acknowledge that it honours me, and that makes me happy.&quot;

Also presented was a grinning bust of one of the greatest footballers of all time.

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But aside from the hair, which looked suitably similar, social media users were quick to mock the statue as nothing like him and even horrifying. (AFP)
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&quot;Seriously, I look more like Cristiano Ronaldo than that bust,&quot; said the Twitter user DiscoHobbit.

The BBC called the bust &quot;bizarre&quot;.

Ronaldo already has a museum and bronze statue in his honour in his birth town of Funchal.

He follows in the footsteps of Northern Ireland legend George Best, who also wore the number seven shirt in his time at Manchester United and had Belfast airport named after him.

Portugal played their first match in Madeira since 2001 on Tuesday, going down 3-2 to Sweden.

Ronaldo&#39;s 71st goal for his country in the defeat saw the striker go level in third place with German Miroslav Klose in the list of Europe`s all-time top international goalscorers behind Hungaria

(AFP) 
&nbsp;

(

Also presented was a 'bizarre' bust of the football star. Many said it didn't look like him

Cristiano Ronaldo had an international airport renamed in his honour on Wednesday but it was a newly unveiled bust of him that soon became a major talking point. Five thousand screaming fans, the Portuguese talisman himself and the country's prime minister and the president were all in attendance at the airport of Madeira, the island where Ronaldo was born. "To see this airport bear my name is a very special thing," said Ronaldo, 32, who skippered Portugal to victory in the European championships last year. "Everyone knows I am proud of my roots." Real Madrid star Ronaldo, speaking at a naming ceremony also attended by his family, added: "I didn't ask for this but I'm not a hypocrite and I acknowledge that it honours me, and that makes me happy." Also presented was a grinning bust of one of the greatest footballers of all time. But aside from the hair, which looked suitably similar, social media users were quick to mock the statue as nothing like him and even horrifying. (AFP) × "Seriously, I look more like Cristiano Ronaldo than that bust," said the Twitter user DiscoHobbit. The BBC called the bust "bizarre". Ronaldo already has a museum and bronze statue in his honour in his birth town of Funchal. He follows in the footsteps of Northern Ireland legend George Best, who also wore the number seven shirt in his time at Manchester United and had Belfast airport named after him. Portugal played their first match in Madeira since 2001 on Tuesday, going down 3-2 to Sweden. Ronaldo's 71st goal for his country in the defeat saw the striker go level in third place with German Miroslav Klose in the list of Europe`s all-time top international goalscorers behind Hungaria (AFP) (

Football: Madeira airport renamed after Cristiano Ronaldo

Everything Fabio Ferreira Silva owns fits inside one of the 12 bright yellow lockers in front of Lisbon&#39;s riverside Santa Apolonia rail station.

Silva and other homeless people use the metal cabinets to store their belongings, which they used to drag around the hilly, cobblestone streets of the Portuguese capital in boxes, bags or shopping carts.

&quot;These lockers are very important,&quot; he said holding open the door to his locker where he stores a blanket, clothes, a mobile phone charger, toiletries and personal documents.&nbsp;

&quot;Imagine having to walk up everywhere with everything in the rain.&quot;&nbsp;

The so-called &quot;solidarity lockers&quot; were set up by the small charity ACA to make life easier for the city&#39;s homeless and help them get back on track.

The first dozen lockers, which have an outer slot for mail and a rod to hang clothes, were set up in 2013 in Arroios, a residential neighbourhood in central Lisbon with wide boulevards.

Another 12 lockers were put up outside the Santa Apolonia train station last year and the association is waiting for approval from city officials to instal 36 more.

Each set of 12 lockers costs 11,700 euros ($12,950) to make and install. Lisbon city hall covers 60 per cent of the cost with the rest coming from donations by the public.

&#39;Gain their trust&#39;

The lockers,&nbsp;which are 1.8 metres (nearly six foot) tall and 50 centimetres wide,&nbsp;are assigned to a homeless person for one year and users have 24 hour access to their belongings.

Other cities around the world such as Vancouver and Salt Lake City have set up lockers for the homeless but they are for day use only.

Charities estimate there are just over 800 homeless people in Lisbon.

To obtain and keep using a locker a homeless person has to promise to keep the area around them clean and stay in regular contact with the ACA&#39;s street team.

Members of the squad help locker users obtain documents, get medical treatment, secure a state pension or find housing.

&quot;That is the key to the project&#39;s success,&quot; said architect Duarte Paiva who designed the lockers and founded ACA in 2007.

&quot;Having a locker is very important but it is not enough. People need solutions to their problems. Often the homeless are suspicious of social services. This is a way to gain their trust.&quot;

The street team is helping Silva, who moved to Portugal from Guinea Bissau, a tiny, coup-prone former Portuguese colony in West Africa three years ago, to get a residency permit.

He has struggled to find steady work without the permit and has been sleeping on the streets since his sister -- an unemployed single mother of two -- kicked him out of her house in September because she could not afford to support him any longer.

&quot;I really just need to be able to work,&quot; said Silva, 37, who was stylishly dressed in a clean, pink button-down shirt and cap.

&#39;Not a little thing&#39;

Joana Guerreiro, a psychologist on ACA&#39;s street team, said the lockers &quot;empower people&quot;.

&quot;Having a key to your own space also gives people purpose to their lives and a sense of control,&quot; she said.

Forty-five people have used a locker since the project was launched.

Many like Marcio Miguel, 36, credit the project with helping them get off the streets.

He moved to Lisbon from Portugal&#39;s mid-Atlantic Azores islands earlier this year but quickly found himself living on the streets after he lost his construction job because he abused cocaine and heroin.

Before having a locker he would hide his belongings, clothes, food, documents,to avoid having to carry everything with him. His stuff was often gone when he returned.&nbsp;

&quot;On the streets you can&#39;t have food because it disappears. Others who are hungrier than you take it,&quot; he said.

&quot;With the locker I started to have more clothes. Before, even after having a bath I had to put on dirty clothes. You either wear the same clothes or you drag everything around.&quot;

With the help of ACA&#39;s street team he was then able to find low-cost housing and a drug treatment programme.

&quot;A locker seems like a little thing but it&#39;s not,&quot; said Miguel as he cleared out his stuff from the locker he no longer needs.

(AFP)

The lockers are given to the homeless, as is 24-hour access to their belongings

Everything Fabio Ferreira Silva owns fits inside one of the 12 bright yellow lockers in front of Lisbon's riverside Santa Apolonia rail station. Silva and other homeless people use the metal cabinets to store their belongings, which they used to drag around the hilly, cobblestone streets of the Portuguese capital in boxes, bags or shopping carts. "These lockers are very important," he said holding open the door to his locker where he stores a blanket, clothes, a mobile phone charger, toiletries and personal documents. "Imagine having to walk up everywhere with everything in the rain." The so-called "solidarity lockers" were set up by the small charity ACA to make life easier for the city's homeless and help them get back on track. The first dozen lockers, which have an outer slot for mail and a rod to hang clothes, were set up in 2013 in Arroios, a residential neighbourhood in central Lisbon with wide boulevards. Another 12 lockers were put up outside the Santa Apolonia train station last year and the association is waiting for approval from city officials to instal 36 more. Each set of 12 lockers costs 11,700 euros ($12,950) to make and install. Lisbon city hall covers 60 per cent of the cost with the rest coming from donations by the public. 'Gain their trust' The lockers, which are 1.8 metres (nearly six foot) tall and 50 centimetres wide, are assigned to a homeless person for one year and users have 24 hour access to their belongings. Other cities around the world such as Vancouver and Salt Lake City have set up lockers for the homeless but they are for day use only. Charities estimate there are just over 800 homeless people in Lisbon. To obtain and keep using a locker a homeless person has to promise to keep the area around them clean and stay in regular contact with the ACA's street team. Members of the squad help locker users obtain documents, get medical treatment, secure a state pension or find housing. "That is the key to the project's success," said architect Duarte Paiva who designed the lockers and founded ACA in 2007. "Having a locker is very important but it is not enough. People need solutions to their problems. Often the homeless are suspicious of social services. This is a way to gain their trust." The street team is helping Silva, who moved to Portugal from Guinea Bissau, a tiny, coup-prone former Portuguese colony in West Africa three years ago, to get a residency permit. He has struggled to find steady work without the permit and has been sleeping on the streets since his sister -- an unemployed single mother of two -- kicked him out of her house in September because she could not afford to support him any longer. "I really just need to be able to work," said Silva, 37, who was stylishly dressed in a clean, pink button-down shirt and cap. 'Not a little thing' Joana Guerreiro, a psychologist on ACA's street team, said the lockers "empower people". "Having a key to your own space also gives people purpose to their lives and a sense of control," she said. Forty-five people have used a locker since the project was launched. Many like Marcio Miguel, 36, credit the project with helping them get off the streets. He moved to Lisbon from Portugal's mid-Atlantic Azores islands earlier this year but quickly found himself living on the streets after he lost his construction job because he abused cocaine and heroin. Before having a locker he would hide his belongings, clothes, food, documents,to avoid having to carry everything with him. His stuff was often gone when he returned. "On the streets you can't have food because it disappears. Others who are hungrier than you take it," he said. "With the locker I started to have more clothes. Before, even after having a bath I had to put on dirty clothes. You either wear the same clothes or you drag everything around." With the help of ACA's street team he was then able to find low-cost housing and a drug treatment programme. "A locker seems like a little thing but it's not," said Miguel as he cleared out his stuff from the locker he no longer needs. (AFP)

Lockers lighten load for Lisbon's homeless

Cristiano Ronaldo and Renato Sanches were recalled&nbsp;to the Portugal squad after injury on Thursday as&nbsp;coach Fernando Santos urged the two to switch out of &quot;party mode&quot;.

&nbsp;

While naming his players for next month&#39;s World Cup qualifiers, Santos said his players were not fully switched on when they vegan their campaign with a 2-0 defeat in Switzerland,

&nbsp;

&quot;We have to get out of European champion mode, that party mode, that state of relaxation,&quot; Santos told reporters. &quot;That cannot happen again.&quot;

&nbsp;

&quot;We have to remember that the qualifying competition is very different from a tournament. We don`t have 50 days together and the sense of togetherness that goes with it,&quot; he added.

&nbsp;

&quot;We play once a month and then the players go back to their clubs.&quot;

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<h5>I wouldn`t say the team is stronger just because Ronaldo is here but because the other players have played more, have worked more and have trained more. That was one of the problems of the match against Switzerland.&quot;</h5>
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The squad&#39;s captain, Ronaldo, and midfielder Sanches missed the Switzerland match because they had not fully recovered from injuries sustained during Euro 2016.

&nbsp;

But Santos added it was not just their presence that would make Portugal stronger. &quot;I wouldn`t say the team is stronger just because Ronaldo is here but because the other players have played more, have worked more and have trained more. That was one of the problems of the match against Switzerland.&quot;

&nbsp;

Portugal will host Andorra in Aveiro on October&nbsp;7 and visit the Faroes three days later.

&nbsp;

Santos called Faroes a &#39;very well-organised team&#39; and said&nbsp;they would play in a similar manner to Iceland, who held Portugal to a 1-1 draw in their opening match at Euro 2016.

&nbsp;

&quot;They are a very well-organised team. They will cause trouble and we have to be on our guard. If we respect them as we did with our opponents during the Euros, we will win; if we are not careful, we will be left with a bad taste.&quot; he told reporters.

&nbsp;

(WION with inputs from Reuters)

Portugal will host Andorra in Aveiro on October?7 and visit the Faroes three days later

Cristiano Ronaldo and Renato Sanches were recalled to the Portugal squad after injury on Thursday as coach Fernando Santos urged the two to switch out of "party mode". While naming his players for next month's World Cup qualifiers, Santos said his players were not fully switched on when they vegan their campaign with a 2-0 defeat in Switzerland, "We have to get out of European champion mode, that party mode, that state of relaxation," Santos told reporters. "That cannot happen again." "We have to remember that the qualifying competition is very different from a tournament. We don`t have 50 days together and the sense of togetherness that goes with it," he added. "We play once a month and then the players go back to their clubs." I wouldn`t say the team is stronger just because Ronaldo is here but because the other players have played more, have worked more and have trained more. That was one of the problems of the match against Switzerland." × The squad's captain, Ronaldo, and midfielder Sanches missed the Switzerland match because they had not fully recovered from injuries sustained during Euro 2016. But Santos added it was not just their presence that would make Portugal stronger. "I wouldn`t say the team is stronger just because Ronaldo is here but because the other players have played more, have worked more and have trained more. That was one of the problems of the match against Switzerland." Portugal will host Andorra in Aveiro on October 7 and visit the Faroes three days later. Santos called Faroes a 'very well-organised team' and said they would play in a similar manner to Iceland, who held Portugal to a 1-1 draw in their opening match at Euro 2016. "They are a very well-organised team. They will cause trouble and we have to be on our guard. If we respect them as we did with our opponents during the Euros, we will win; if we are not careful, we will be left with a bad taste." he told reporters. (WION with inputs from Reuters)

Santos recalls Ronaldo and Sanches, asks players to get out of 'party mode'

Portugal&#39;s former prime minister Antonio Guterres is still the frontrunner to become the next secretary-general of the United Nations following a third straw poll held Monday, diplomats said. 
 
Guterres, who served as UN refugee chief for 10 years, received 11 votes of encouragement, three &quot;discourage&quot; votes and one &quot;no opinion&quot; during the informal vote by the 15-member Security Council. 
 
It is the third time that the 67-year-old has taken the number one spot in the contest to succeed Ban Ki-moon, who steps down on December 31 after 10 years as the world`s top diplomat. 
 
During the first round, Guterres took the lead with 12 &quot;encourage&quot; votes and three &quot;no opinion,&quot; but he picked up two &quot;discourage&quot; votes in the second straw poll, along with 11 encouragements and two &quot;no opinion.&quot; 
 
While Guterres&#39;s ranking dropped slightly in the third straw poll, diplomats said he still held a strong lead in the race to take the helm of the world body. 
 
&quot;He remains well ahead of the pack,&quot; a Security Council diplomat said, speaking on condition of anonymity. 
 
Slovak Foreign Minister Miroslav Lajcak made a surprise showing as the runner-up, climbing up the rankings with nine encouragements, five discourage votes and one &quot;no opinion.&quot;&nbsp; 
 
He took the sixth position in the last round. 
 
The 15 ambassadors including those from the powerful five -- Britain, China, France, Russia and the United States -- met behind closed doors to rate the candidates with ballots marked &quot;encourage,&quot; &quot;discourage&quot; or &quot;no opinion.&quot; 
 
The Security Council is trying to come up with a shortlist of candidates before putting forward a nominee, possibly in October, to be endorsed by the General Assembly. UNESCO chief Irina Bokova of Bulgaria and Serbia`s ex-foreign minister Vuk Jeremic tied for the third spot, with seven encouragements and five &quot;discourage&quot; votes, plus three &quot;no opinion.&quot; 
 
Bokova became the leading woman in the race, just ahead of Argentina`s Susanna Malcorra, who picked up seven encouragements, seven &quot;discourage votes and one &quot;no opinion.&quot; 
Lower down the rankings, New Zealand`s ex-prime minister and current UN Development Program chief Helen Clark took the number six spot, just below Macedonia`s ex-foreign minister Srgjan Kerim. 
 
Clark picked up six encouragements, eight &quot;discourage&quot; votes and one &quot;no opinion,&quot; compared to six encouragements, seven &quot;discourage&quot; votes and two &quot;no opinion&quot; for Kerim. 
Slovenia`s former president Danilo Turk, who had made a strong showing as the runnerup in the first round, dropped to the bottom tier, with five encouragements, six &quot;discourage&quot; votes and four &quot;no opinion&quot;. 
 
The last spots went to former UN climate negotiator Christiana Figueres and ex-foreign minister Natalia Gherman of Moldova, who both picked up two encouragements, 12 &quot;discourage&quot; votes and one no opinion. 
 
The results of the straw poll were not publicly announced, but the council president communicated them to the candidates to give them an indication of the level of support in the council. 
 
As with the two first straw polls, the results were quickly leaked to the media. 
 
Council members are facing calls to pick the first woman after eight men in the job, and to give preference to a candidate from eastern Europe, the only region that has yet to be represented in the post. 
 
Russia has said it will give priority to eastern European candidates&nbsp;but has not ruled out that contenders from other regions could be qualified for the post. 
 
Of the 10 candidates now still in the running, six are from eastern Europe. Five are women. 
Only two have dropped out of the race thus far, but others are expected to withdraw after this latest straw poll. 
 
(AFP)

He has received 11 ''encouragement'' votes, three "discourage" and one "no opinion" in the informal vote by the 15-member Security Council

Portugal's former prime minister Antonio Guterres is still the frontrunner to become the next secretary-general of the United Nations following a third straw poll held Monday, diplomats said. Guterres, who served as UN refugee chief for 10 years, received 11 votes of encouragement, three "discourage" votes and one "no opinion" during the informal vote by the 15-member Security Council. It is the third time that the 67-year-old has taken the number one spot in the contest to succeed Ban Ki-moon, who steps down on December 31 after 10 years as the world`s top diplomat. During the first round, Guterres took the lead with 12 "encourage" votes and three "no opinion," but he picked up two "discourage" votes in the second straw poll, along with 11 encouragements and two "no opinion." While Guterres's ranking dropped slightly in the third straw poll, diplomats said he still held a strong lead in the race to take the helm of the world body. "He remains well ahead of the pack," a Security Council diplomat said, speaking on condition of anonymity. Slovak Foreign Minister Miroslav Lajcak made a surprise showing as the runner-up, climbing up the rankings with nine encouragements, five discourage votes and one "no opinion." He took the sixth position in the last round. The 15 ambassadors including those from the powerful five -- Britain, China, France, Russia and the United States -- met behind closed doors to rate the candidates with ballots marked "encourage," "discourage" or "no opinion." The Security Council is trying to come up with a shortlist of candidates before putting forward a nominee, possibly in October, to be endorsed by the General Assembly. UNESCO chief Irina Bokova of Bulgaria and Serbia`s ex-foreign minister Vuk Jeremic tied for the third spot, with seven encouragements and five "discourage" votes, plus three "no opinion." Bokova became the leading woman in the race, just ahead of Argentina`s Susanna Malcorra, who picked up seven encouragements, seven "discourage votes and one "no opinion." Lower down the rankings, New Zealand`s ex-prime minister and current UN Development Program chief Helen Clark took the number six spot, just below Macedonia`s ex-foreign minister Srgjan Kerim. Clark picked up six encouragements, eight "discourage" votes and one "no opinion," compared to six encouragements, seven "discourage" votes and two "no opinion" for Kerim. Slovenia`s former president Danilo Turk, who had made a strong showing as the runnerup in the first round, dropped to the bottom tier, with five encouragements, six "discourage" votes and four "no opinion". The last spots went to former UN climate negotiator Christiana Figueres and ex-foreign minister Natalia Gherman of Moldova, who both picked up two encouragements, 12 "discourage" votes and one no opinion. The results of the straw poll were not publicly announced, but the council president communicated them to the candidates to give them an indication of the level of support in the council. As with the two first straw polls, the results were quickly leaked to the media. Council members are facing calls to pick the first woman after eight men in the job, and to give preference to a candidate from eastern Europe, the only region that has yet to be represented in the post. Russia has said it will give priority to eastern European candidates but has not ruled out that contenders from other regions could be qualified for the post. Of the 10 candidates now still in the running, six are from eastern Europe. Five are women. Only two have dropped out of the race thus far, but others are expected to withdraw after this latest straw poll. (AFP)

Portugal's Guterres still leads race to be UN chief

More than 2,000 firefighters were battling scores of forest fires throughout northern Portugal on Saturday. 
 
One of most devastating of the 79 blazes consumed an area of forest around the town of Melres e Medas, less than 20 kilometres (12 miles) from the northern city of Porto. 
 
Two firefighters were injured, one through inhaling fumes and the other from a fall, the Lusa news agency reported. 
 
Television images showed locals joining forces with the fire brigade to tackle the flames. 
 
&quot;We are trying to avoid the fire spreading. The biggest problem is the wind,&quot; said town mayor Marco Martins. 
 
Two planes and a helicopter were brought in to help tackle the blaze, the civil protection service said. 
 
There was no word as to what started the fire, three of which were described as &quot;substantial&quot;, but Portugal is prone to forest fires during the hot summer months. 
 
In 2013, more than 150,000 hectares of forest went up in smoke. 
 
(AFP)

Over 2,000 firefighters were battling scores of forest fires throughout northern Portugal. Two fire fighters were injured

More than 2,000 firefighters were battling scores of forest fires throughout northern Portugal on Saturday. One of most devastating of the 79 blazes consumed an area of forest around the town of Melres e Medas, less than 20 kilometres (12 miles) from the northern city of Porto. Two firefighters were injured, one through inhaling fumes and the other from a fall, the Lusa news agency reported. Television images showed locals joining forces with the fire brigade to tackle the flames. "We are trying to avoid the fire spreading. The biggest problem is the wind," said town mayor Marco Martins. Two planes and a helicopter were brought in to help tackle the blaze, the civil protection service said. There was no word as to what started the fire, three of which were described as "substantial", but Portugal is prone to forest fires during the hot summer months. In 2013, more than 150,000 hectares of forest went up in smoke. (AFP)

Forest fires rage in northern Portugal

Portugal&#39;s former prime minister Antonio Guterres held the lead in the race to be the next UN secretary-general after a second secret straw poll on Friday, diplomats said. 
 
Guterres received 11 &quot;encourage&quot; votes, two &quot;discourage&quot; votes and two &quot;no opinion&quot; during the informal vote by the 15-member Security Council, a slightly weaker showing than in the first round last month. 
 
But the 67-year-old Guterres managed to increase his lead over the other candidates in the race to succeed Ban Ki-moon, who steps down after 10 years as UN chief at the end of this year. 
 
Serbia&#39;s former foreign minister Vuk Jeremic made a surprisingly strong showing, taking the second spot with eight &quot;encourage&quot; votes, four &quot;discourage&quot; votes and three &quot;no opinion&quot;. 
 
Argentina&#39;s Foreign Minister Susana Malcorra climbed up the rankings, taking third place and becoming the leading woman in the race. 
 
Malcorra, a UN insider who was Ban&#39;s chief of staff, picked up eight encouragements, six discouragements and one no opinion, moving up from eighth place in the first round. 
 
Slovenia&#39;s ex-president Danilo Turk, who was the runner-up in the first round, dropped to fourth place, with seven encouragements, five discouragements and three &quot;no opinion&quot;. 
 
UNESCO chief Irina Bokova of Bulgaria also fell from her third-place ranking to fifth place, with seven encouragements, seven discouragements and one &quot;no opinion&quot;. 
 
Guterres, who served as the UN&#39;s refugee chief for 10 years and as Portugal&#39;s socialist prime minister from 1995 to 2002, came out on top during the first round with 12 &quot;encourage&quot; votes and three &quot;no opinion&quot;. 
 
Diplomats speculated that one of the two negative votes cast in this round may have come from veto power Russia in a bid to block or slow down his advance. 
 
&quot;Guterres is almost there,&quot; commented a diplomat, who spoke on condition of anonymity. 
 
 
Clark drops in ranking 
 
Lower down the rankings, New Zealand&#39;s ex-prime minister and head of the UN development program, Helen Clark, lost some ground as well, taking the number seven spot after Macedonia&#39;s ex-foreign minister Srgjan Kerim. 
 
Clark picked up six encouragements and eight &quot;discourage&quot; votes along with one &quot;no opinion.&quot; In the first-round rankings, she was sixth. 
 
The last four spots went to former UN climate negotiator Christiana Figueres, ex-foreign minister Natalia Gherman of Moldova, Slovak Foreign Minister Miroslav Lajcak and Igor Luksic, a former acting prime minister of Montenegro. 
 
The shakeup in this round meant that the council will still be holding several straw polls to try to reach a consensus on who should take the helm of the United Nations. 
 
Security Council members are facing calls to pick the first woman after eight men in the job, and to give preference to a candidate from eastern Europe, the only region that has yet to be represented in the post. 
 
Of the 11 candidates, seven are from eastern Europe. Five are women. 
 
The secret vote caps a new, more open process that for the first time in the UN&#39;s history allowed candidates to appear at hearings to make their pitch for the top job before the General Assembly. 
 
The results of the straw poll were not publicly announced, but the council president communicated them to the candidates to give them an indication of the level of support in the council. 
 
Some candidates privately said ahead of the vote that they would closely look at the results to decide whether to stay in the race. 
 
Croatia&#39;s ex-foreign minister Vesna Pusic pulled out on Thursday after she picked up the lowest score in the first round. 
 
Council diplomats are expecting a nominee to emerge in October, who will then be endorsed by the General Assembly. 
 
The new UN secretary-general will begin his or her five-year term on January 1. 
 
(AFP) 
&nbsp;

Guterres is in a better position to replace Ban Ki-moon after the Security Council's second round of secret votes

Portugal's former prime minister Antonio Guterres held the lead in the race to be the next UN secretary-general after a second secret straw poll on Friday, diplomats said. Guterres received 11 "encourage" votes, two "discourage" votes and two "no opinion" during the informal vote by the 15-member Security Council, a slightly weaker showing than in the first round last month. But the 67-year-old Guterres managed to increase his lead over the other candidates in the race to succeed Ban Ki-moon, who steps down after 10 years as UN chief at the end of this year. Serbia's former foreign minister Vuk Jeremic made a surprisingly strong showing, taking the second spot with eight "encourage" votes, four "discourage" votes and three "no opinion". Argentina's Foreign Minister Susana Malcorra climbed up the rankings, taking third place and becoming the leading woman in the race. Malcorra, a UN insider who was Ban's chief of staff, picked up eight encouragements, six discouragements and one no opinion, moving up from eighth place in the first round. Slovenia's ex-president Danilo Turk, who was the runner-up in the first round, dropped to fourth place, with seven encouragements, five discouragements and three "no opinion". UNESCO chief Irina Bokova of Bulgaria also fell from her third-place ranking to fifth place, with seven encouragements, seven discouragements and one "no opinion". Guterres, who served as the UN's refugee chief for 10 years and as Portugal's socialist prime minister from 1995 to 2002, came out on top during the first round with 12 "encourage" votes and three "no opinion". Diplomats speculated that one of the two negative votes cast in this round may have come from veto power Russia in a bid to block or slow down his advance. "Guterres is almost there," commented a diplomat, who spoke on condition of anonymity. Clark drops in ranking Lower down the rankings, New Zealand's ex-prime minister and head of the UN development program, Helen Clark, lost some ground as well, taking the number seven spot after Macedonia's ex-foreign minister Srgjan Kerim. Clark picked up six encouragements and eight "discourage" votes along with one "no opinion." In the first-round rankings, she was sixth. The last four spots went to former UN climate negotiator Christiana Figueres, ex-foreign minister Natalia Gherman of Moldova, Slovak Foreign Minister Miroslav Lajcak and Igor Luksic, a former acting prime minister of Montenegro. The shakeup in this round meant that the council will still be holding several straw polls to try to reach a consensus on who should take the helm of the United Nations. Security Council members are facing calls to pick the first woman after eight men in the job, and to give preference to a candidate from eastern Europe, the only region that has yet to be represented in the post. Of the 11 candidates, seven are from eastern Europe. Five are women. The secret vote caps a new, more open process that for the first time in the UN's history allowed candidates to appear at hearings to make their pitch for the top job before the General Assembly. The results of the straw poll were not publicly announced, but the council president communicated them to the candidates to give them an indication of the level of support in the council. Some candidates privately said ahead of the vote that they would closely look at the results to decide whether to stay in the race. Croatia's ex-foreign minister Vesna Pusic pulled out on Thursday after she picked up the lowest score in the first round. Council diplomats are expecting a nominee to emerge in October, who will then be endorsed by the General Assembly. The new UN secretary-general will begin his or her five-year term on January 1. (AFP)

Portugal's former Prime Minister Guterres leads race to be next UN secretary general

Portugal&#39;s Cristiano Ronaldo, winning a record 128th cap, missed a penalty and had a late headed effort disallowed for offside as they were held 0-0 by Austria at Euro 2016 on Saturday (June 18) for their second straight draw. 
 
Portugal dominated the Group F match with Ronaldo in the thick of the action and had a golden chance to win when they were awarded a penalty when he went down under a challenge from Martin Hinteregger in the 78th minute. 
 
However, Ronaldo sent his effort against the foot of the post for his fourth miss in his last five spot kicks. 
 
Ronaldo also sidefooted wide from a good position in the first half and forced two good saves from Robert Almer in quick succession after halftime. Nani also headed against the post just before the half hour. 
 
Hungary lead the group with four points, followed by Portugal and Iceland on two and Austria on one. Portugal meet Hungary in their last game. 
 
(Reuters)

Portugal dominated the Group F match with Ronaldo in the thick of the action and had a golden chance to win when they were awarded a penalty

Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo, winning a record 128th cap, missed a penalty and had a late headed effort disallowed for offside as they were held 0-0 by Austria at Euro 2016 on Saturday (June 18) for their second straight draw. Portugal dominated the Group F match with Ronaldo in the thick of the action and had a golden chance to win when they were awarded a penalty when he went down under a challenge from Martin Hinteregger in the 78th minute. However, Ronaldo sent his effort against the foot of the post for his fourth miss in his last five spot kicks. Ronaldo also sidefooted wide from a good position in the first half and forced two good saves from Robert Almer in quick succession after halftime. Nani also headed against the post just before the half hour. Hungary lead the group with four points, followed by Portugal and Iceland on two and Austria on one. Portugal meet Hungary in their last game. (Reuters)

Ronaldo misses penalty as Portugal held by Austria

UEFA began disciplinary proceedings today against Portugal, Hungary and Belgium for incidents in their Euro 2016 matches the previous day. 
 
Portugal is charged with allowing a pitch invasion, Hungary for allowing crowd disturbances and other offences and Belgium for its fans setting off fireworks and throwing objects. 
 
A fan ran on to the pitch in Portugal&#39;s 0-0 draw with Austria at the Parc des Princes in Paris on Saturday and posed for a selfie with Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo. 
 
In Marseille, Hungarian fans clashed with stewards in the Stade Velodrome as they tried to climb a fence to join up with another group of Hungarians before the 1-1 draw with Iceland. 
 
Hungary is also accused of allowing its fans to set off fireworks and throwing objects. 
 
The punishment in that case will be announced on Tuesday. 
 
Belgium also faces charges that its supporters threw fireworks and other objects during the 3-0 win against the Republic of Ireland in Bordeaux. 
 
UEFA said it was yet to decide a date for its disciplinary committee to meet on the cases of Belgium and Portugal. 
(AFP)

A fan ran on to the pitch after Portugal's 0-0 draw with Austria in Paris and posed for a selfie with Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo

UEFA began disciplinary proceedings today against Portugal, Hungary and Belgium for incidents in their Euro 2016 matches the previous day. Portugal is charged with allowing a pitch invasion, Hungary for allowing crowd disturbances and other offences and Belgium for its fans setting off fireworks and throwing objects. A fan ran on to the pitch in Portugal's 0-0 draw with Austria at the Parc des Princes in Paris on Saturday and posed for a selfie with Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo. In Marseille, Hungarian fans clashed with stewards in the Stade Velodrome as they tried to climb a fence to join up with another group of Hungarians before the 1-1 draw with Iceland. Hungary is also accused of allowing its fans to set off fireworks and throwing objects. The punishment in that case will be announced on Tuesday. Belgium also faces charges that its supporters threw fireworks and other objects during the 3-0 win against the Republic of Ireland in Bordeaux. UEFA said it was yet to decide a date for its disciplinary committee to meet on the cases of Belgium and Portugal. (AFP)

UEFA opens disciplinary probes against Portugal, Hungary and Belgium

It will be virgin territory for Wales when they face Portugal in the Euro 2016 semi-finals yet their opponents could be forgiven a sense of deja vu as they step on to the pitch in Lyon today. 
 
This will be Portugal&#39;s fourth semi-final in the last five editions of the competition stretching back to 2000, but for all their success in reaching the latter stages of the tournament, there has been little glory along the way. 
 
Only once have they overcome the last-four hurdle and then they were beaten in the final by Greece as hosts at Euro 2004. 
 
If their defeat in the semi-finals of the 2006 World Cup and the loss at the Euros in 1984 are taken into account, they are becoming all too familiar with the pitfalls of this stage of major tournaments. 
 
Portugal&#39;s conquerors in their recent last-four clashes have included football powerhouses France, at Euro 2000 and the World Cup in 2006, and Spain at Euro 2012. 
 
If they lose to Wales, playing their first major tournament in 58 years and their first ever semi-final, it would be a devastating blow. 
 
Yet Wales are arguably the form team coming into the match. 
 
Chris Coleman&#39;s side have revelled in their underdog status to win their group, which also included England, Russia and Slovakia, ease out British rivals Northern Ireland in the last 16 and sweep past heavy favourites Belgium in the quarters. 
 
Portugal are yet to win a match at the tournament inside 90 minutes, having drawn all three group games, beaten Croatia in extra time and squeezed past Poland on penalties. 
 
Things are yet to click for Portugal, and for captain Cristiano Ronaldo, who has at times looked exasperated by his team mates attacking shortcomings. 
 
Yet Portugal are unbeaten in 12 competitive internationals since Fernando Santos took over as coach at the start of the Euro 2016 qualifying campaign. 
 
With Ronaldo&#39;s Real Madrid team mate Pepe marshalling an increasingly assured defence, they will be tough to break down. 
 
Especially for a Wales side deprived of one of their most talented creative influences in midfielder Aaron Ramsey, who will be suspended after picking up a booking in the win over Belgium. 
 
While Gareth Bale has been Wales&#39;s attacking talisman, scoring three times to lift them out of their group, Ramsey has been arguably their most influential player, scoring one and producing four assists in the run to the last four. 
 
The match is likely to be billed as a contest between the two most expensive players in the world - Ronaldo, who will play a record third European Championship semi-final, and his Real Madrid team mate Bale. 
 
Perhaps ominously for Wales, Ronaldo has netted twice in each of his last two games in Lyon for club and country. 
 
(Reuters)

Things are yet to click for the Portuguese and their captain Ronaldo, who has at times looked exasperated by his teammates' shortcomings

It will be virgin territory for Wales when they face Portugal in the Euro 2016 semi-finals yet their opponents could be forgiven a sense of deja vu as they step on to the pitch in Lyon today. This will be Portugal's fourth semi-final in the last five editions of the competition stretching back to 2000, but for all their success in reaching the latter stages of the tournament, there has been little glory along the way. Only once have they overcome the last-four hurdle and then they were beaten in the final by Greece as hosts at Euro 2004. If their defeat in the semi-finals of the 2006 World Cup and the loss at the Euros in 1984 are taken into account, they are becoming all too familiar with the pitfalls of this stage of major tournaments. Portugal's conquerors in their recent last-four clashes have included football powerhouses France, at Euro 2000 and the World Cup in 2006, and Spain at Euro 2012. If they lose to Wales, playing their first major tournament in 58 years and their first ever semi-final, it would be a devastating blow. Yet Wales are arguably the form team coming into the match. Chris Coleman's side have revelled in their underdog status to win their group, which also included England, Russia and Slovakia, ease out British rivals Northern Ireland in the last 16 and sweep past heavy favourites Belgium in the quarters. Portugal are yet to win a match at the tournament inside 90 minutes, having drawn all three group games, beaten Croatia in extra time and squeezed past Poland on penalties. Things are yet to click for Portugal, and for captain Cristiano Ronaldo, who has at times looked exasperated by his team mates attacking shortcomings. Yet Portugal are unbeaten in 12 competitive internationals since Fernando Santos took over as coach at the start of the Euro 2016 qualifying campaign. With Ronaldo's Real Madrid team mate Pepe marshalling an increasingly assured defence, they will be tough to break down. Especially for a Wales side deprived of one of their most talented creative influences in midfielder Aaron Ramsey, who will be suspended after picking up a booking in the win over Belgium. While Gareth Bale has been Wales's attacking talisman, scoring three times to lift them out of their group, Ramsey has been arguably their most influential player, scoring one and producing four assists in the run to the last four. The match is likely to be billed as a contest between the two most expensive players in the world - Ronaldo, who will play a record third European Championship semi-final, and his Real Madrid team mate Bale. Perhaps ominously for Wales, Ronaldo has netted twice in each of his last two games in Lyon for club and country. (Reuters)

In-form Wales take on Portugal

Football tensions mounted and patriotic hopes rose Sunday ahead of the Euro 2016 final between hosts France and Portugal that will unleash a clash between one of the world&#39;s greatest ever players Cristiano Ronaldo and would-be pretender Antoine Griezmann. 
 
After 50 matches over a month of football that has seen stunning shocks by Iceland and Wales, Ronaldo is counting on his side to produce one more upset so he can finally win an international trophy. 
 
Portugal will have to beat a French side who have found new inspiration from Griezmann, the tournament&#39;s leading scorer with six goals and will be willed on by a nation longing to rediscover the feelgood factor. 
 
With the country still on terrorist alert after the November 13 attacks in which 130 people died, more than 3,400 police will be on the Champs Elysees in Paris alone when the match starts at the Stade de France at 1900 GMT. 
 
National flags hung from apartment blocks and homes in cities across France and Portugal as football fever mounted. 
 
The buildup to Euro 2016 was clouded by fears that the tournament would be targeted by jihadists after 130 people were killed in terror attacks on Paris in November. 
 
&quot;The French people needed to find their way again,&quot; President Francois Hollande said in a commentary on the wave of support for the national team that has been in disgrace in recent years. 
 
&quot;We saw it at the time of the attacks. We came together in the dramas, we had to find ourselves in the happiness, to come together.&quot;Rival coaches Didier Deschamps of France and Fernando Santos of Portugal have been desperately trying to shield their teams from the sky-high hopes of their nations. 
 
Deschamps, who captained the French side that won the 1998 World Cup and the Euro title in 2000, said he could feel the adrenaline pumping. 
 
&quot;It`s an exceptional moment, a privilege, a unique chance because there is a title at the end,&quot; Deschamps said of the final. 
 
&quot;What you need to do is approach it as relaxed as possible while being at the same time totally focused on the match,&quot; he added. 
 
&quot;On the bench, there is a frustration in not taking part, but I can&#39;t do that anyway. But I&#39;m fine, I don&#39;t feel any pressure, no stress, just adrenaline and that&#39;s positive.&quot; 
 
France have put in some stylish performances, including their 5-2 win over Iceland to end the giant-killing run of the team that dumped England out of the contest. 
 
France captain Hugo Lloris said the team wants to put their name in the history books to redeem themselves for a player revolt at the 2010 World Cup that made them a national disgrace. 
 
The troubles were worsened by the exclusion of star striker Karim Benzema over an alleged sextape blackmail attempt. 
 
&quot;We have come through a crisis in French football,&quot; the Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper said. &quot;We have climbed back up the slope, we have done it step by step.&quot; 
 
Lloris said Sunday&#39;s final is &quot;the chance to go into French football history.&quot; 
 
France, with home advantage in the 85,000-capacity stadium, and with Griezmann, star midfielder Paul Pogba and the calming influence of Lloris, start as favourites. 
 
But they acknowledge the omnipresent danger of Ronaldo on the pitch. 
 
Santos has succeeded by building a team around the superstar striker and winning &quot;ugly&quot; when necessary to get to the next round. 
 
Portugal&#39;s 2-0 win over Wales in the semi-final was their first in the tournament achieved within 90 minutes. 
 
Veterans such as defender Pepe and Ricardo Quaresma have played lynchpin roles on days when Ronaldo has failed to fire.Portugal have been criticised for some of their European Championship performances but Santos said he does not care. 
 
He also says France are the favourites but believes Portugal can win. 
 
&quot;Let them carry on saying that Portugal won without deserving it,&quot; he said. 
 
&quot;I will be very happy if they say that again tomorrow. I will go home very happy.&quot; 
 
Portugal have never fully recovered from losing the 2004 Euro final to Greece when they hosted the tournament. 
 
Ronaldo, who shed tears as a 19-year-old at that match, said this week he wants to be &quot;crying with joy&quot; today. 
 
Ronaldo&#39;s Real Madrid teammate Pepe is fully fit again after missing the semi-final through injury. Pepe said Portugal were strong because they want to win. 
 
&quot;I&#39;ve been at a very demanding club for 10 years and I`ve been playing for Portugal since 2008,&quot; he said when asked about his own ambition to win at the age of 33. 
 
&quot;I have three European Championship and two World Cup campaigns to my name. 
 
&quot;I have always been very demanding of myself. I don`t like to lose, I want to help my team. That makes me play at the highest level and to be recognised at the highest level.&quot; 
 
(AFP)

France Captain Hugo Lloris said Sunday's final is 'the chance to go into French football history'

Football tensions mounted and patriotic hopes rose Sunday ahead of the Euro 2016 final between hosts France and Portugal that will unleash a clash between one of the world's greatest ever players Cristiano Ronaldo and would-be pretender Antoine Griezmann. After 50 matches over a month of football that has seen stunning shocks by Iceland and Wales, Ronaldo is counting on his side to produce one more upset so he can finally win an international trophy. Portugal will have to beat a French side who have found new inspiration from Griezmann, the tournament's leading scorer with six goals and will be willed on by a nation longing to rediscover the feelgood factor. With the country still on terrorist alert after the November 13 attacks in which 130 people died, more than 3,400 police will be on the Champs Elysees in Paris alone when the match starts at the Stade de France at 1900 GMT. National flags hung from apartment blocks and homes in cities across France and Portugal as football fever mounted. The buildup to Euro 2016 was clouded by fears that the tournament would be targeted by jihadists after 130 people were killed in terror attacks on Paris in November. "The French people needed to find their way again," President Francois Hollande said in a commentary on the wave of support for the national team that has been in disgrace in recent years. "We saw it at the time of the attacks. We came together in the dramas, we had to find ourselves in the happiness, to come together."Rival coaches Didier Deschamps of France and Fernando Santos of Portugal have been desperately trying to shield their teams from the sky-high hopes of their nations. Deschamps, who captained the French side that won the 1998 World Cup and the Euro title in 2000, said he could feel the adrenaline pumping. "It`s an exceptional moment, a privilege, a unique chance because there is a title at the end," Deschamps said of the final. "What you need to do is approach it as relaxed as possible while being at the same time totally focused on the match," he added. "On the bench, there is a frustration in not taking part, but I can't do that anyway. But I'm fine, I don't feel any pressure, no stress, just adrenaline and that's positive." France have put in some stylish performances, including their 5-2 win over Iceland to end the giant-killing run of the team that dumped England out of the contest. France captain Hugo Lloris said the team wants to put their name in the history books to redeem themselves for a player revolt at the 2010 World Cup that made them a national disgrace. The troubles were worsened by the exclusion of star striker Karim Benzema over an alleged sextape blackmail attempt. "We have come through a crisis in French football," the Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper said. "We have climbed back up the slope, we have done it step by step." Lloris said Sunday's final is "the chance to go into French football history." France, with home advantage in the 85,000-capacity stadium, and with Griezmann, star midfielder Paul Pogba and the calming influence of Lloris, start as favourites. But they acknowledge the omnipresent danger of Ronaldo on the pitch. Santos has succeeded by building a team around the superstar striker and winning "ugly" when necessary to get to the next round. Portugal's 2-0 win over Wales in the semi-final was their first in the tournament achieved within 90 minutes. Veterans such as defender Pepe and Ricardo Quaresma have played lynchpin roles on days when Ronaldo has failed to fire.Portugal have been criticised for some of their European Championship performances but Santos said he does not care. He also says France are the favourites but believes Portugal can win. "Let them carry on saying that Portugal won without deserving it," he said. "I will be very happy if they say that again tomorrow. I will go home very happy." Portugal have never fully recovered from losing the 2004 Euro final to Greece when they hosted the tournament. Ronaldo, who shed tears as a 19-year-old at that match, said this week he wants to be "crying with joy" today. Ronaldo's Real Madrid teammate Pepe is fully fit again after missing the semi-final through injury. Pepe said Portugal were strong because they want to win. "I've been at a very demanding club for 10 years and I`ve been playing for Portugal since 2008," he said when asked about his own ambition to win at the age of 33. "I have three European Championship and two World Cup campaigns to my name. "I have always been very demanding of myself. I don`t like to lose, I want to help my team. That makes me play at the highest level and to be recognised at the highest level." (AFP)

France, Portugal head for Euro 2016 final showdown

Cristiano Ronaldo has vowed to come back stronger for the coming season after suffering a knee injury in Portugal&#39;s triumphant Euro 2016 final earlier this month. 
 
The Real Madrid forward, who is in this year&#39;s Best Player in Europe shortlist, was carried off the pitch on a stretcher after 25 minutes in the final against hosts France. 
 
&quot;I just wanted to thank all my fans,&quot; Ronaldo said in a video on his Instagram account. 
 
&quot;I wanted to tell them that all is well and that I will come back much stronger. Thank you, long live Portugal.&quot; 
 
The thirty-one-year-old, who racked up 51 goals in 48 games last season, scored the decisive penalty to seal Real&#39;s second Champions League final success over local rivals Atletico Madrid in three years. 
 
La Liga runners-up Real begin their 2016-17 campaign, in what will be manager Zinedine Zidane&#39;s first full season in charge, away to Real Sociedad on August 21. 
 
(Reuters)

The Portuguese forward was forced to leave the field due to an injury after 25 minutes in the 2016 Euro final

Cristiano Ronaldo has vowed to come back stronger for the coming season after suffering a knee injury in Portugal's triumphant Euro 2016 final earlier this month. The Real Madrid forward, who is in this year's Best Player in Europe shortlist, was carried off the pitch on a stretcher after 25 minutes in the final against hosts France. "I just wanted to thank all my fans," Ronaldo said in a video on his Instagram account. "I wanted to tell them that all is well and that I will come back much stronger. Thank you, long live Portugal." The thirty-one-year-old, who racked up 51 goals in 48 games last season, scored the decisive penalty to seal Real's second Champions League final success over local rivals Atletico Madrid in three years. La Liga runners-up Real begin their 2016-17 campaign, in what will be manager Zinedine Zidane's first full season in charge, away to Real Sociedad on August 21. (Reuters)

Cristiano Ronaldo pledges to come back stronger after knee injury

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