World Cup
Ronaldo called Portugal's biggest problem after 1-1 draw
Cristiano Ronaldo was singled out as Portugal's biggest problem after the national side settled for a 1-1 draw with Congo on Wednesday evening. The criticism was aired on 's 'WK Praat' programme, where analyst Hedwiges Maduro dissected the striker's performance.
Portugal could not distinguish themselves against Congo, with both sides scoring once. The match ended without a winner, leaving Portugal with a single point.
Hedwiges Maduro said, "Yesterday you see Messi score three times and you expect him to score as well, even if it's just one goal. I think that also plays a role". He contrasted Messi's output with Ronaldo's lack of impact in the game.
Maduro added, "I thought Portugal did not play well at all. But the biggest problem is Ronaldo. What is going on in his head? Is he selfish? It looks like that". He suggested Ronaldo's mindset may be affecting the team's overall performance.
Maduro explained, "There were many examples that as a striker he wants to be the final station. But when he sometimes drifts out, Bruno Fernandes is completely free". He argued that Ronaldo's tendency to play for himself leaves teammates underutilised.
Maduro concluded, "Messi is really involved in the game, gives passes and through balls. Ronaldo basically runs offside all the time and literally waits for the ball to score". He highlighted Messi's hat-trick against Algeria as evidence of his all‑round contribution.