Iceland defender Kari Arnason has hit back at Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo, saying Lionel Messi "is always going to be one step ahead of him."

Real Madrid star Ronaldo criticised Iceland after they held Portugal to a 1-1 draw on Tuesday, saying they had a small time mentality and moaning that they celebrated as if they had won Euro 2016.

His comments haven't gone down well with the Iceland and Arnason has already replied.

"It makes it even sweeter when he’s a sore loser like that," he said.

"He can say whatever he wants. He didn’t really get a chance today, he got one and he couldn’t put it away. What can I say? Sore loser. Tough shit.

"He’s a fantastic footballer, but he’s not a gracious human being and the thing is we almost nicked the win so him saying we weren’t going for the win contradicts that.

"We got a draw and could have nicked it. Obviously we’re not going to create as many chances as a fantastic team like Portugal, but his comments are the reason why Messi is always going to be one step ahead of him."