Port Elizabeth - Portugal coach Carlos Queiroz says Cristiano Ronaldo is relishing the start of the Soccer World Cup campaign.??

The Portuguese begin their Group G quest with a clash against the Ivory Coast in Port Elizabeth on Tuesday with Ronaldo leading his team out of the tunnel as captain.

The high-profile 25-year-old will look to spearhead his side's attempts to reach the knockout phase of the competition and will carry the hopes of the country on his shoulders.

Queiroz, who worked with Ronaldo during their respective spells at Manchester United, believes his star player is more then capable of managing the burden.

But the 57-year-old expects the other members of his squad to help ease the pressure on the Real Madrid winger, who he believes is ready to hit top form during the competition.

Queiroz said: "He is good, he is looking forward to it - and I feel not only him, but all the players are wanting to play their best football yet.

"I am sure our 23 players, after the preparation we have undertaken, are all more than ready to begin playing.

"Cristiano Ronaldo is the captain of the team and a big icon nationally and internationally, and he is ready. They are all ready.

"It's time to play. The preparation time has come to an end and they now all really want to start playing, playing well and showing what they are capable of.

"We have 23 players who are desperate to do well for Portugal and I am sure all the players and not only Cristiano Ronaldo will be motivated by national pride."?

Copyright News24.com. Reprinting is not allowed without express, written permission.