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Ronaldo Debate Grips Portugal After Flat World Cup Showing
How 3 Israeli newsrooms covered this story — translated into English and compared side by side.
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By מערכת וואלה ספורט
First reported by Mako · Jun 22, 2026
What happened
Cristiano Ronaldo is under heavy criticism in Portugal after a poor showing in the 1-1 draw with the Democratic Republic of Congo at the 2026 World Cup. Despite growing calls for him to be dropped, coach Roberto Martinez is expected to start the 41-year-old against Uzbekistan on Tuesday night.
- 01A Portuguese poll found most fans do not want Ronaldo starting against Uzbekistan.
- 02Portugal drew 1-1 with the Democratic Republic of Congo after Ronaldo’s poor performance.
- 03Roberto Martinez is expected to keep Ronaldo in the lineup on Tuesday at 20:00.
- 04Media in Portugal, Spain and Germany say the debate has become national and divisive.
- 05Miguel Dantas wrote that Ronaldo is no longer fit to start and should accept a reduced role.
Summary translated & synthesized from the sources below by baba. Read each original for the full report.
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