Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo heads to South Africa this summer with a point to prove after losing his World Player of the Year crown to Lionel Messi last year.

The 25-year-old has quickly settled into life at Real Madrid following his world record £80 million move from Manchester United but has been overshadowed by Messi's exploits at Barcelona this season.

And Ronaldo believes he may need to produce something special in South Africa if he is to become the name on everyone's lips once again.

When questioned on his aspirations for football's showpiece event, he responded: "Above all to arrive in my best form. I plan to have a great World Cup."

"I will go there with this attitude and do everything I can to take Portugal as far as possible."

Portugal open their campaign in Port Elizabeth on June 15 with a tricky clash against Ivory Coast, before taking on North Korea and five-time champions Brazil in their remaining group games.

"It's clear that we fell into the most difficult group, but we cannot complain about it," he said.

"The first game will be crucial, against Ivory Coast. We have to win that.

"It will be difficult, but we have our chances to get through."