Cristiano Ronaldo shares five-word message to Portugal fans ahead of FIFA World Cup Round of 32 match against Croatia

Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo (AP Photo/Eric Gay) Cristiano Ronaldo has urged Portugal fans to create a home atmosphere ahead of Friday’s FIFA World Cup Round of 32 match against Croatia. Portugal will face a tough challenge against a Croatia team led by experienced midfielder Luka Modric, with progress to the pre-quarterfinals at stake.Ronaldo shared an emotional message on Instagram before the game, asking fans to support the team in a big way. He posted a picture with a hand-holding emoji and a Portuguese flag and wrote: “Facam-nos sentir em casa”, which roughly translates to “to make us feel at home”. The match also has emotional significance for Portugal as it falls on the first anniversary of the death of the late striker Diogo Jota, who died in a road accident in Spain last year.The 41-year-old superstar achieved another major milestone during Portugal’s group stage campaign when he made his 25th FIFA World Cup appearance, equaling German legend Lothar Matthaus for the second-most appearances in the tournament’s history. Only Lionel Messi has played more World Cup matches with 29 appearances.Ronaldo also starred in Portugal’s emphatic win over Uzbekistan, scoring twice as his side secured their first win of the tournament. This made him Portugal’s top scorer in FIFA World Cup history with 10 goals, breaking the record previously held by Portuguese legend Eusebio.Portugal entered the tournament under pressure after being held to a draw by DR Congo in their opening game. However, their convincing win over Uzbekistan helped revive their campaign and boost confidence ahead of the crucial knockout clash against Croatia, where Ronaldo and his team-mates will look to continue their quest for World Cup glory.