• Euro 2012

Ronaldo tells Spain to stop whingeing

Portugal are positive about causing a shock against Spain © PA Photos

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Cristiano Ronaldo has told Spain to stop complaining about fatigue ahead of their Euro 2012 semi-final with Portugal.

The Donbass Arena plays host to an Iberian derby on Wednesday, with Spain strong favourites to progress to the final. However, they have had two days less to recover from their quarter-final exertions than Portugal and manager and players have voiced their concerns.

Spain coach Vicente Del Bosque said: "We have two fewer days to rest than them. It is a small handicap. I am thinking about this problem. We have arrived very drained because the heat we suffered tonight was cruel on the players."

Ronaldo is aware his side have had two days extra to prepare, but claims the turnaround time should not be a problem for any professional.

"Three days' rest is more than enough," he said. "The Spaniards claimed having two days is a disadvantage but, as a professional, I believe it is not an important factor."

Real Madrid star Ronaldo's supreme displays in the past two games went a long way to taking Portugal into the last four. He netted in the win over Czech Republic, his third goal of the tournament, and it is being claimed that he will have to be in the same form if Spain are to be tested.

Ronaldo is aware of the expectation on his shoulders, but he claims he has lived with it for a decade and thrives under the pressure.

"I don't feel pressure playing against Spain," Ronaldo said. "These games are part of my life. I have spent 10 years playing these type of games for club and country and I have to be accustomed to it.

"I feel responsibility, yes. But pressure, no. It's beautiful for Portugal to be able to reach another final, it will be difficult but we are only one step away.

"We have done great work to get here not only in the finals but also in the qualifiers."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.