Ronaldo relishes Portugal's underdog role at WC

MADRID (AP) — Cristiano Ronaldo doesn't count his Portugal among the favorites to win the World Cup, and he likes it that way.

Ronaldo says he prefers the role of underdog a day before Friday's draw to determine the groups for the tournament.

The Real Madrid star tells Spanish sports daily Marca "We know we are not favorites and that is good for us, we will have the advantage of surprise. I hope we get in a good group and then we'll see."

Ronaldo said host Brazil, defending champion Spain, and Germany would be the front-runners.

The forward is a leading candidate to win the world player of the year award.

His recent four goals over two legs in a playoff against Sweden qualified Portugal for the World Cup.