This 2026 World Cup is just something else ah . All the big names are firing on all cylinders… Mbappe,Haaland,Messi… everyone is scoring like crazy. And then there is Cristiano Ronaldo.
On one side,you have Kylian Mbappe scoring two goals against Senegal and becoming France's all-time leading scorer . Erling Haaland made his World Cup debut with two goals for Norway against Iraq. And Messi,what to say,he got a whole hat-trick for Argentina against Algeria,tying with Miroslav Klose for most goals in World Cup finals history.
But on other side,Portugal captain Ronaldo really struggled in their 1-1 draw against DR Congo . This was supposed to be his big match,his chance to become first player ever to score in six different World Cups . But it just didn't happen.
And honestly,this is where things get uncomfortable.
The frustration was visible on his face . He apparently blocked a pass meant for Bruno Fernandes,which was probably Portugal's best chance to win the match. desperation to break his nine-match scoring drought in major tournaments was clear to see.
Couple of things are making news from this match:
- Ronaldo became oldest outfield player to start World Cup match at 41 years and 132 days .
- Pundits like Thierry Henry are openly criticising him for being selfish.
- Coach Roberto Martinez is also getting questions for keeping him on for whole match.
That comment from Thierry Henry was very sharp tbh . "The team needs to score,not you." That really says it all about the situation rn. It feels like his own personal mission is getting in the way of team's performance.
And look at the stats . Portugal had 75% possession but only seven attempts at goal,and just one on target . That one was Pedro Neto's header. This shows the whole team is not converting their dominance into goals.
Pundits like Wayne Rooney and Gael Clichy are also saying that maybe Ronaldo's presence is making younger players nervous or affecting their decisions on field . Like they are always looking to pass to him only.
The pressure is just building and building on him . With all his rivals doing so well and younger players shining,everyone is watching to see what happens with Ronaldo's legacy… I just wonder how he will respond in next matches…
