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[SPORTS] · Portugal, Uzbekistan, Congo - Kinshasa · 79 sources

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Portugal needs win over Uzbekistan as Ronaldo criticism intensifies

Portugal opened the 2026 World Cup with a 1‑1 draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo, sparking fierce criticism of veteran striker Cristiano Ronaldo after a goalless, ineffective performance. Several Portuguese players defended the veteran: full‑back João Cancelo said Ronaldo and Brazil’s Neymar “don’t need to prove anything to anyone,” while Diogo Dalot and forward Francisco Conceição stressed that the team is not obliged to always feed Ronaldo. Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes, speaking on a podcast, suggested that at 41 Ronaldo should only start as a goalkeeper. Coach Roberto Martínez has evaded questions about Ronaldo’s starting role, citing internal discussions and the need for unity amid “noise” from the media. The squad faces a must‑win second‑group game against Uzbekistan on 23 June in Houston to stay in contention for the knockout stage, with the win essential to avoid falling behind group leaders Colombia.

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Cristiano Ronaldo bajo presión [eldiariodechihuahua.mx]
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