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Real Madrid and Spain Star Issues Challenge to Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo

Originally posted on Real Madrid CF on SI
By Jordan Merritt | Last updated Jun 6, 2025 5:17 AM ET

Spain secured their place in the final of the UEFA Nations League, beating France in a thrilling 5-4 match. They will face Portugal on June 8, with La Roja looking to secure back-to-back tournament wins.

New Real Madrid signing Dean Huijsen started the semi-final, facing his future teammate Kylian Mbappe. The Frenchman scored a penalty, but his team fell short of reaching the final.

Huijsen will come up against Los Blancos legend Cristiano Ronaldo in the final. The 40-year-old scored the winner to send his country to the final, beating Germany 2-1. The Spanish defender spoke to 'El Partidazo' (COPE) about facing Ronaldo, and despite having a lot of respect for his opponent, he issued a challenge.

For me he is one of the best in history, for every child, for every young person who plays against Cristiano Ronaldo it is like a dream to play against him. Let's see if I can stop him.Dean Huijsen

Huijsen saw France score three goals in the last 11 minutes of the game, making the game look closer than it was for the first 75 minutes. He and the defense will need to be more focused against Ronaldo and a dangerous Portugal team.

The 20-year-old also scored a fantastic goal in the first half, finishing off in style after a great team move. It was unfortunately ruled out for offside. Huijsen revealed what he had said to the referee at halftime.