Cristiano Ronaldo’s performance came under intense scrutiny after Portugal were held to a disappointing draw by DR Congo in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Portugal arrived at the tournament carrying the weight of expectation. With one of the most talented squads in the competition, Roberto Martinez’s side are widely regarded as genuine contenders to lift the trophy.
The campaign appeared to begin perfectly when Joao Neves fired Portugal ahead after just six minutes against DR Congo. The early goal seemed to put Martinez’s men firmly in control.
However, Portugal failed to build on their advantage.
DR Congo gradually settled into the contest and stunned the Europeans just before half-time when Yoane Wissa found the equaliser, sending the teams into the break level.
Despite creating opportunities after the restart, Portugal were unable to find a winning goal and were forced to settle for a frustrating 1-1 draw.
Much of the post-match discussion centred on Ronaldo, who struggled to influence proceedings in what was his sixth World Cup appearance.
The 41-year-old managed just three shots and recorded 25 touches during a largely ineffective display, prompting criticism from former France striker Thierry Henry.
Speaking on FOX Sports, Henry suggested Ronaldo’s determination to get on the scoresheet may have actually hindered Portugal’s attacking play.
“One thing that’s important, people, please at home, the team needs to score. Not you need to score,” Henry said.
The Arsenal legend argued that Ronaldo’s movement occasionally crowded areas where team-mates were looking to create opportunities, making life easier for DR Congo’s defenders.
Henry also highlighted a moment involving Bruno Fernandes, claiming the midfielder appeared frustrated after Ronaldo chose to shoot rather than allow a potentially better opportunity to develop.
The comments quickly sparked debate among fans and pundits alike.
Some agreed with Henry’s analysis, arguing that Portugal may need to consider alternative attacking options if they are to challenge for the World Cup. Others defended Ronaldo, pointing to his extraordinary achievements and insisting one difficult game should not overshadow his importance to the national team.
The discussion has inevitably led to renewed calls for Goncalo Ramos to be given a greater role in the tournament.
Ramos famously replaced Ronaldo in Portugal’s starting line-up during the 2022 World Cup and responded with a hat-trick against Switzerland, a performance that remains one of the defining moments of his international career.
For now, however, Martinez has shown no indication that he plans to drop his captain.
Portugal remain well placed to progress from the group stage, but the spotlight will remain firmly fixed on Ronaldo as they prepare for their next match.
With expectations soaring and every result under the microscope, the debate over Ronaldo’s role is unlikely to disappear any time soon.
