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Hungary have nothing to lose against Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal, says boss Bernd Storck

Cristiano Ronaldo admitted he was 'sad' about not scoring against Austria on Saturday
Image: Portugal talisman Cristiano Ronaldo has endured a luckless Euro 2016 so far

Surprise Group F leaders Hungary will look to prolong Cristiano Ronaldo's misery in front of goal and secure first place when they face Portugal on Wednesday.

The Hungarians have raised eyebrows in France, backing up their 2-0 win over Austria with a 1-1 draw with Iceland, to top a group Portugal had been favourites to win.

Under German coach Bernd Storck, Hungary need only a point against Portugal to be sure of reaching the knockout phase.

Hungary celebrate the late equaliser against Iceland
Image: Hungary celebrate the late equaliser against Iceland

"Who would have thought that we'd be top of the group with four points and that Portugal would need to win to qualify?" said Storck.

"We have nothing to lose, Portugal have to win. This is a big surprise for everyone and I can't compliment my team enough.

"I'm enjoying myself, my team is enjoying the chance to face such top quality players and we hope it's a journey which continues."

Midfielder Gergo Lovrencsics says his team-mates are desperate to hold on to top spot and avoid the likes of England, Spain and Germany in the last 16.

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Hungary coach Bernd Storck
Image: Hungary coach Bernd Storck says his side has nothing to lose against Portugal

"I think I can speak for the team when I say we don't want to let first place slip through our fingers," he said.

In contrast, the misfiring Portuguese are under pressure and must win at the Stade de Lyon to be sure of qualifying.

They have scored just once in two games so far despite creating 50 chances over the course of their 1-1 draw with Iceland and goalless stalemate with Austria.

Hungary goalkeeper Gabor Kiraly has been a star at Euro 2016
Image: Gabor Kiraly will hope to frustrate Ronaldo once more at Parc Olympique Lyonnais

To compound Portugal's struggles, Ronaldo hit the post with his second-half penalty against the Austrians.

Having become Portugal's most capped player last Saturday, Ronaldo continues his wait for a goal that would see him become the first player to score in four European Championship finals.

"Everybody is always asking about Cristiano Ronaldo, but I don't think he's the only world-class player in their team," insisted Storck.

PARIS, FRANCE - JUNE 18: Robert Almer of Austria attempts to save as Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal hits the post from the penalty spot during the UEFA EURO
Image: Ronaldo struck the foot of the post with his penalty against Austria last Saturday

"We need to be compact, everyone needs to fight for each other, be brave and we have to play our own game. It's not just about their number seven.

"They haven't been able to put away their chances in their first two games, so it will be tough."

The Hungarians have no intention of letting the Real Madrid star write more football history.

Lovrencsics added: "We really hope not, he's their most dangerous player, but there is a lot of talent in this team and we think we have the antidote to deal with them."

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