Ronaldo Under Fire After World Cup Stumble: “Portugal Would Be Better Without Him”
The 41-year-old superstar endured one of the worst World Cup performances of his career as Portugal was held to a disappointing draw by DR Congo. Critics accused coach Roberto Martinez of being afraid to substitute him, while questions mounted over Ronaldo’s role in the team.
Cristiano Ronaldo's quest for one final World Cup statement got off to a nightmare start.
Portugal opened its 2026 World Cup campaign with a disappointing 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo, but the result was overshadowed by growing criticism of the 41-year-old captain, whose performance left fans and pundits questioning whether he should still be leading the line for one of the tournament's most talented squads.
Ronaldo finished the match without a shot on target, without a successful dribble, without a key pass, and without making a meaningful attacking impact.
Former England striker Chris Sutton did not hold back.
"It is embarrassing for Roberto Martinez," Sutton said after the match. "Everyone can see what is happening except the coach. Martinez is afraid to take Ronaldo off. The game has passed him by. He is still a great player, but he is no longer the player he once was, and Portugal are paying the price."
Former France international Gael Clichy echoed those concerns, arguing that Ronaldo's presence may actually be limiting Portugal's attacking potential.
"When Ronaldo is on the field, everything becomes about him," Clichy explained. "Portugal kept forcing attacks toward the wings looking for crosses into the box. Without him, they might have created more through the middle and played with greater freedom."
Not everyone agreed.
Former Manchester United teammate Wayne Rooney defended Ronaldo, insisting that the Portuguese legend remains dangerous if given proper service.
"Ronaldo has always lived off opportunities," Rooney said. "If you create chances for him, he will score."
Portugal coach Roberto Martinez attempted to calm the growing controversy.
"We started well, but after scoring we stopped attacking the penalty area and became too comfortable keeping possession," Martinez said. "I did not like our performance, but I liked the players' attitude. There are no easy games at a World Cup."
When asked directly whether Ronaldo should have been substituted or partnered with another striker, Martinez carefully avoided criticism of his captain.
"Every decision I made was professional," he said. "We have world-class players like Bernardo Silva and Bruno Fernandes. We will analyze the match and find the right solutions."
Adding to the speculation, Ronaldo walked directly to the dressing room after the final whistle instead of remaining with teammates on the pitch. The move immediately sparked questions about his frustration with the result.
Martinez dismissed the incident as nothing unusual.
"It was simply part of the confusion and emotions that come with the first game of a tournament," he explained.
For now, Portugal remains alive and well in the competition. But after one of Ronaldo's quietest World Cup performances, the debate surrounding his role is only beginning.
And if Portugal continues to struggle, the pressure on both Ronaldo and Martinez will intensify with every passing match.