Del Bosque: Ronaldo is unique & there is nobody like him

25-Jun-2012 3:20:00 PM

The Spain boss has praised the Portugal star ahead of the two sides' Euro 2012 semi-final, saying that the 27-year-old can do things no others can do

Spain coach Vicente del Bosque believes that Portugal talisman Cristiano Ronaldo is ‘unique’, as his side prepare for their Euro 2012 semi-final clash with their Iberian neighbours on Wednesday.

The Real Madrid attacker scored twice as his side came from behind against Netherlands to seal a place in the knock-out stages, and dealt the critical blow in the 1-0 win over Czech Republic in the last eight, setting up a tie with La Roja.

And Del Bosque has admitted that he is wary of Ronaldo, but believes he can be tamed on Wednesday night if he is marked properly.

"Portugal have very strong and powerful players at the back, and two full-backs who incorporate in the attacking play," he told radio station Onda Cero.

“They don't need a lot of play because on a counterattack they can send a long ball to Ronaldo. It's obvious that Cristiano is unique - there is nobody like him.

"I would like us to stay on top of him with our marking, not let him play, and for other players to help out and be vigilant in case they win the ball back, so they don't have lots of space [to attack]."

Spain and Portugal kick off at 20:45CET on June 27.