Cristiano Ronaldo's muted debut sees Portugal struggle

Cristiano Ronaldo's first World Cup appearance for Portugal against DR Congo was marked by inactivity, with the veteran striker rarely involved in play. In the opening half hour he only made a brief run that saw him run past teammate Bruno Fernandes, a move that failed to create a scoring chance. Columnist Sjoerd Mossou published his commentary on 19 June 2026 at 09:28, critiquing Portugal's opening World Cup match. “Ook de huidige bondscoach Roberto Martínez houdt het sprookje laf in stand, door net te doen alsof het doodnormaal is om iedere wedstrijd met z’n tenen te spelen.” Mossou noted that Ronaldo contributed nothing throughout the first hour, even refusing to engage in the customary pressure. He described Ronaldo's lack of effort as a refusal to use the old alibi of pressing, a tactic once required at JEKA 4.

Peter Schmeichel slams Roberto Martínez after Portugal's 1-1 draw with Congo

The American broadcaster Fox replayed former Arsenal striker Thierry Henry's criticism that Ronaldo seemed intent on scoring alone. Henry argued that Ronaldo's run was aimed at personal glory rather than creating a team goal, and it ended without a strike. According to the column, many Portuguese supporters believe Ronaldo should be given a minimal role until he physically collapses. Mossou adds that Roberto Martínez perpetuates the myth that fielding ten players is ordinary for Portugal. Mossou declares Ronaldo is no longer even a caricature, let alone a real footballer. He adds that the audience remains a cowardly crowd, afraid to disappoint the fading star.