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Portugal have a Ronaldo problem (again) after draw with Congo DR
ESPN • • general
Key Points:
- Portugal drew 1-1 with Congo DR in their opening 2026 World Cup match, despite dominating early possession and taking an early lead through João Neves' header.
- Congo DR equalized late in the first half and outperformed Portugal in shots, shots on goal, and expected goals (xG) for most of the match, exposing Portugal's struggles after their initial goal.
- Cristiano Ronaldo, playing his sixth World Cup at age 41, had a subdued performance with limited chances created or shots on goal, continuing a goal drought in major international tournaments.
- Portugal coach Roberto Martinez acknowledged the team's drop in attacking effectiveness after conceding but defended keeping Ronaldo on the pitch, emphasizing the need to improve service to the striker.
- The match highlighted ongoing challenges for Portugal in finding alternative goal-scoring options and adapting tactics, with calls for a "Plan B" given Ronaldo's recent decline in major tournament impact.
