AS.com

Diego Armando Maradona has lauded Cristiano Ronaldo for leading Portugal to the semi-finals of the European Championships and has said a statue should be built in the player's honour in Lisbon.

'Pelusa' wrote in his column for the Times of India: "For many years, Ronaldo didn't play his best for his country. The best player in the world, along with Messi, appeared frustrated and indecisive when he played for Portugal. Luckily for him, Portuguese coach Paulo Bento brought in a world class players such as Pepe at centre-half, Meireles in midfield, and Nani in attack, giving him [Ronaldo] a freer role in attack."

"In two superb performances [against Holland and the Czech Republic] he scored three goals, and against the odds, sent Portugal to the semi-finals of the tournament, proving to his country that he deserves a statue in Lisbon."

In the same column, Maradona analysed tonight's semi-final clash between Spain and Portugal, encouraging Ronaldo and co. to attack the European and World champions.

"Spain aren't as strong as they were two years ago when they won the World Cup. If Portugal turn up and defend, Spain will hammer them. But if they attack well, like Italy did, they could do well," he said.

'El Diez' added: "Although it's not as obvious as it was in South Africa, Spain still dominate games with irritating ease."