World Cup 2018: Diego Costa says he wishes he was like Cristiano Ronaldo after witnessing incredible hat-trick

DIEGO COSTA has revealed he wishes he was like Cristiano Ronaldo after witnessing the Real Madrid star's incredible hat-trick.

Ronaldo scored a ridiculous trio in the Portugal's 3-3 draw with Spain - with Costa himself scoring twice.

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But the Atletico Madrid man revealed he could only look on in sheer awe at the performance of CR7 in Sochi.

After witnessing greatness from his front-row seat, Costa claimed: “You have to congratulate Cristiano.

"Criticise him and look what happens... it’s better to leave him alone, I wish I was like him."

Meanwhile, the former Chelsea forward had his say on the six-goal thriller, adding: “I’m very happy, but we had the game tied up and a foul let them equalise.

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“It was a very nice and well-contested match, but we leave here with a strange feeling. We came back from behind and had it in our hands yet let it escape.

“It was a strange game, but I think we deserved to win, we created much more than them and had more of the ball. We came back twice but it wasn’t to be.

“We know we have to go out on the pitch and give everything, for our people and families.

“I have to work hard and keep my mouth shut. Goals are very important, but the truth is that I felt good for the whole game.

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“Starting striker? There must always be debates because that implies there’s competition, and that’s good for the national team."

Costa also defended goalkeeper David De Gea after his howler gifted Portugal a 2-1 lead in the first-half.

The Atleti striker said: “Anything can happen in football. Yesterday was bad and today... we’re a family.

"De Gea is a great goalkeeper, we know his quality. A family always supports its own.

“I’ve always accepted criticism because it’s normal if things don’t go well.”