Ronaldo Motivates Portugal U-17 Women’s Team With New Boots And Inspirational Letter

Portugal are unbeaten in their first three games after defeating Israel 4-1, Latvia 4-0 and drawing 1-1 with leaders Netherlands 1-1 on Monday.

Portugal have thus advanced to the second stage of the qualifiers and could potentially qualify for the final tournament which will be hosted by Sweden next year.

Ronaldo led Portugal’s senior men’s side to their first ever continental triumph when they defeated hosts France 1-0 to win EURO 2016 and followed that by winning the inaugural UEFA Nation’s League this summer.

The Portuguese women’s team have never won a major tournament and Ronaldo is intent on playing his part in changing the narrative.

He said in a letter to the Under-17 women's team: "I send you these Mercurial Dream Speed boots in the hope that they help you reach your dream.

"When I was a child I had a simple but very crazy dream. No, it wasn't the type of dream that you have when you are sleeping. This was one of those dreams that you want so much that it keeps you awake at night.

"I wanted to become the best footballer in the world. I dedicated my life to my dream - in the gym, on the training pitch - doing everything necessary to make it possible. It's so important to have a dream. It's even more important to work hard to reach it.

"I realised my dream and I hope you can realise yours too. Pursue them without hesitation. If I did it, you can do it too. Congratulations on qualifying for the elite round. Stay focused and keep your eyes on the next victory.

"Good luck and enjoy these boots.

"Cristiano Ronaldo.

Five-time Ballon d’or winner Ronaldo has once again been nominated for this year’s award and will likely battle out with Lionel Messi and Virgil Van Dijk for football’s most prestigious individual honour.