Here's What Arturo Vidal Really Said About Cristiano Ronaldo

So, about Arturo Vidal's comments about Cristiano Ronaldo.

It appeared Vidal had taken a swipe at Ronaldo when quotes emerged. He'd allegedly called Ronaldo a 'smart ass' who doesn't 'exist.'

_{The false statement has baffled Vidal and Co. Image: PA}

Following Chile's 1-1 draw against Australia on Sunday, Vidal spoke with the press. Though an error in translation prompted incorrect headlines.

But the Chile secretary has ended speculation of a war of words between the two players by going on record to say what Vidal really said.

"Cristiano is a smart ass! For me he does not exist," he''d supposedly said after the game.

_{Ronaldo wheels away in celebration after scoring for Portugal. Image: PA}

The Chilean midfielder told reporters; "There is no 'cuco' in Portugal."

'Cuco' in Chilean Spanish translates to 'boogeyman' or 'one to fear.' Conversely, the same word in Castilian Spanish means 'crafty' or 'sly.' Hence the mix-up in translation.

_{Vidal gestures towards the crowd after Chile equalize against Australia. Image: PA}

Then the quotes got out of hand when the story was reported in Germany - where Vidal plies his trade. German reports had claimed the Bayern Munich star called Ronaldo a 'smart ass.'

And while conflicting stories surfaced, Maria Jose Vasconcelos, the national team secretary, refuted such claims by clearing up the situation.

"The statements are false," he told ESPN FC.

_{Portugal celebrate scoring a goal against New Zealand. Image: PA}

"The only thing Arturo Vidal said about Cristiano Ronaldo was in the mixed zone, and they asked if he was afraid of the 'cuco.'"

There you have it. Vidal did NOT call Ronaldo a 'smart ass' or any other derogatory comment.

The pair are set to come face-to-face when Chile play Portugal in the Confederation Cup semi-final. They'll be vying for a spot in Sunday's final where they will come up against either Germany or Mexico.

Portugal or Chile - who's everyone got?

Topics: Ronaldo

Nasir Jabbar

Nasir Jabbar is a journalist at SPORTbible. He graduated from Bath Spa University with a BA in Media Communications. He's a combat sport aficionado, and has contributed to MMA websites AddictedMMA and CagePotato. Nasir has covered some of the biggest fights, while interviewing the likes of Conor McGregor, Darren Till, Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua. He's also an avid Bristol City fan.

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