Portugal’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign began with disappointment as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Congo DR, raising fresh concerns about Cristiano Ronaldo’s role in the national team.
Portugal made a dream start when João Neves headed home early after a dominant spell of possession. However, the momentum quickly shifted as Congo DR settled into the match and found an equalizer through Yoane Wissa from a corner before halftime. The African side went on to match and, in some areas, outperform Portugal, finishing with more shots, more shots on target, and a higher expected goals (xG) tally.
Much of the post-match discussion centered on Ronaldo. Playing the full 90 minutes in his sixth World Cup appearance, the 41-year-old struggled to make an impact. He registered only three shots, created no chances, completed few progressive actions, and offered little defensive contribution. As Portugal searched for a winner, coach Roberto Martinez replaced several creative players but kept Ronaldo on the pitch, despite the team’s attacking struggles.
Martinez defended his captain, arguing that Portugal failed to provide sufficient service to their striker and did not reach the final third often enough after taking the lead. However, concerns about Ronaldo’s declining effectiveness continue to grow. Since scoring against Ghana at the 2022 World Cup, he has gone 10 consecutive World Cup and European Championship matches without finding the net.
While Ronaldo remains one of football’s greatest-ever goalscorers and played a key role in Portugal’s UEFA Nations League triumph last year, his influence in major tournaments has diminished. The draw against Congo DR highlighted not only Portugal’s attacking issues but also the lack of an alternative plan when Ronaldo struggles to deliver.
As Portugal prepare for their next group-stage match, questions surrounding Ronaldo’s role and Martinez’s tactical flexibility are likely to remain under intense scrutiny.
