The 46-year-old has been a regular attendee at the World Cup this winter, particularly to watch Brazil, and has cast his eye on the four sides remaining in the competition.

While Ronaldo believes Argentina do not play “great football”, he would still be happy for their talisman, Messi, if he crowns his last appearance at a World Cup with the title.

“I'm going to be honest, I can't say I want Argentina to win, it would be lying,” he told reporters. “I wouldn't be happy as a Brazilian.

“They all deserve it. Football is about playing and winning, nobody is going to give you anything. They all have a chance, of course.

“Argentina don’t play great football but they have an incredible desire. They all run a lot together, they all have that aggressiveness... and then they have Messi, who when he gets in the box is very decisive.

“Personally, I would be happy for him if he wins it.”

Ronaldo, however, has tipped France to successfully defend their crown.

“My prediction from the beginning was always Brazil and France in the final,” he continued.

“Brazil are gone. France, game after game, have been confirming why they’re favourites and continue to have the best chance of winning the World Cup.”