Cristiano Ronaldo has come under scrutiny after Portugal were held to a draw by DR Congo in their opening match of the 2026 World Cup. Former England striker Jay Bothroyd has argued that the veteran forward is becoming a liability for the national team, even as head coach Roberto Martinez continues to stand by his captain amid increasing criticism.

Portugal’s campaign begins with frustration

Portugal’s 2026 World Cup journey got off to a shaky start as they played out a 1-1 draw against DR Congo in Houston. Joao Neves opened the scoring early for Roberto Martinez’s squad, but Yoane Wissa struck before half-time to ensure the African side claimed a valuable point.

The result leaves Portugal under pressure in Group K, with tougher fixtures on the horizon. The draw has reignited debate around Ronaldo’s ongoing role within the squad after the captain failed to make a significant impact. The Al-Nassr striker, participating in a record sixth World Cup, did not manage a shot on target and squandered two clear chances as Portugal struggled to find a decisive goal.

Bothroyd urges Ronaldo to embrace a supporting role

Speaking on Sky Sports, former England forward Jay Bothroyd offered a candid evaluation of Ronaldo’s performance. He suggested that Portugal would be stronger if the 39-year-old accepted a reduced role, coming off the bench as an impact substitute instead of starting every game.

“To be honest, if Ronaldo wants to be a real team player, he should recognise that he needs to take a step back and become a player who comes off the bench to make a difference,” Bothroyd said. “Is he ever going to do that? No, I don’t think he is. And that’s exactly my point.”

Bothroyd also questioned Ronaldo’s ongoing comparisons with Lionel Messi, suggesting that such focus was unsettling the team’s overall balance.

“When I look at Ronaldo — and I know his fans will hate me for saying this — it seems like it’s all about him,” he continued. “He’s still chasing Messi all the time. He’ll never be Messi, but throughout his career, he’s made the most of what he’s got. However, at this stage, he’s becoming more of a hindrance to Portugal than a help, and that’s where I think Martinez is getting it wrong.”

Martinez continues to back his skipper

Despite the chorus of criticism outside the camp, Roberto Martinez remains steadfast. The Portugal manager defended his decision to keep Ronaldo on the field against DR Congo, highlighting the striker’s invaluable experience during tight matches.

“It makes no sense to take off the best goalscorer in world football when you need goals,” Martinez told reporters after the draw. “In moments like these, Cristiano’s experience in the box is crucial. The way he pulls defenders, the way he creates space — it all matters. Every player brings a unique quality, and when you’re chasing goals, you need Cristiano on the pitch.”

Growing pressure before crucial group fixtures

Portugal now prepare for their second Group K encounter against Uzbekistan, aware that another slip could seriously jeopardise their chances of progressing to the knockout rounds. The pressure on Martinez to find an effective attacking formula is mounting with each performance. Ronaldo, meanwhile, has remained publicly optimistic, assuring fans on social media that the tournament is “far from over” despite the disappointing beginning.

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