Criticism Targets Ronaldo as Portugal Draws Congo in World Cup

Cristiano Ronaldo has come under intense scrutiny following Portugal's draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo.

After impressive performances from Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, and Lionel Messi, Ronaldo had the opportunity to make his mark in the 2026 World Cup. However, the Portuguese captain was unable to replicate their success.

Portugal drew 1-1 with the Democratic Republic of Congo on Wednesday, with Ronaldo striving to become the first player to score in six different World Cup tournaments, but he did not achieve this milestone.

Chris Sutton, former striker for Blackburn, Chelsea, and Aston Villa, who was commentating on the match for BBC Radio 5 Live, criticized coach Roberto Martínez's decision to keep the 41-year-old Ronaldo on the field for the entire game in Houston.

When striker Gonzalo Ramos replaced midfielder Vitinha in the 83rd minute, Sutton remarked during the commentary, "This is embarrassing from Martínez. It might work out, but are we all watching a different game?"

According to BBC, Sutton added, "He is afraid to substitute him. He is not the coach. Ronaldo might score the winning goal, but the match has passed him by today."

Portugal's next group stage match is against Uzbekistan on Tuesday evening, followed by their final group game against Colombia early on Sunday, June 28.