Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal drew 1-1 with the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the match triggered another wave of harsh international criticism of the 40-year-old forward. Ronaldo played the full 90 minutes, failed to score, did not register a shot on target, and extended to 10 straight games without a goal in major tournaments. The game also marked his official FIFA “legacy” recognition for appearing in five World Cups or more, but the focus quickly shifted to his poor performance and Roberto Martinez’s decision to leave him on the pitch until the end.
TalkSPORT pundit Tony Cascarino was among the strongest critics, saying Ronaldo “was really not involved,” looked “as if time had beaten him,” and added, “He gave nothing to the Portugal team.” He also questioned Martinez, asking whether the coach was simply trying to remain “a friend of Ronaldo.” Former player Dietmar Hamann said Portugal had become too dependent on Ronaldo and warned that, at this stage of his career, he cannot be expected to start and complete 90 minutes every match. Chris Sutton made similar remarks on the BBC, calling it “embarrassing” that Martinez did not replace Ronaldo and saying the coach seemed “afraid to take him off.”
French pundit Daniel Riolo was even more blunt, calling Ronaldo “a burden” and saying Portugal played “with 10 players and a post in attack.” He contrasted Ronaldo with Lionel Messi, arguing that Messi has accepted his age and adapted, while Ronaldo still behaves like he is 25. Former France defender Gary Cahill also suggested Ronaldo’s presence affects teammates’ decisions, saying big stars can unconsciously absorb attention from others.
Even Congo midfielder Angalael Mokau said his side did not need a special plan to stop Ronaldo, explaining that he is “not the same player as before” but still deserves respect as one of the game’s greats. Wayne Rooney, Ronaldo’s former Manchester United teammate, defended him and blamed Portugal’s overall display, saying the team needed more energy and more running around him. Portugal next face Uzbekistan, with pressure on Ronaldo and Martinez now rising sharply.
