Cristiano Ronaldo has received strong backing from his former Portugal teammate Bruno Alves as the iconic forward comes under heavy scrutiny at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Portuguese captain has been criticised after a disappointing start to the tournament, but those who have played alongside him are refusing to join the critics.

Alves defends Ronaldo from critics

Former Portugal defender Bruno Alves has spoken out in support of Ronaldo after the 41-year-old veteran faced a barrage of criticism following Portugal’s 1-1 draw with DR Congo.

The forward, competing in his sixth World Cup, drew attention for missing several key chances in the Group K opener in Houston. Despite his struggles, Alves – a Euro 2016 winner with Ronaldo – stood firmly by his old teammate. Posting on social media, Alves wrote, “Respect, idols are timeless!” before addressing those who had questioned the Al-Nassr star. “Many people talk about football without ever having done anything in football. Criticism should only come from those who achieve more! Cristiano, we trust you no matter what,” wrote the former Porto and Zenit Saint Petersburg centre-back.

Rising frustration at the World Cup

Alves’ support arrives at a tense moment for Ronaldo, who looked visibly upset after the draw with DR Congo. The legendary striker appeared dejected as he left the pitch while most of his teammates stayed behind to applaud the fans. His reaction sparked further debate about his role and influence under coach Roberto Martinez.

Despite the frustrating result, Alves believes the current Portugal squad must do everything possible to help the five-time Ballon d’Or winner finally claim the ultimate team prize. The veteran defender has long stated that Ronaldo’s illustrious career deserves the crowning glory of a World Cup victory, no matter the challenges facing the Seleção.

A call to win the World Cup

In an earlier interview with A BOLA, Alves urged the national team to fight for their captain’s legacy. “Make Portugal World Champions. Make Cristiano World Champion because it is a more than deserved prize. I would be overjoyed if he wins this World Cup. It’s a fair reward for all he has done for Portugal and the world of football. It’s a gift that we all want very much. Good luck!” he said.

Ronaldo’s pursuit of the elusive trophy continues to define Portugal’s campaign. Although he has scored in every previous edition of the tournament he has played, the forward is now enduring his longest-ever goal drought in major international competitions, having gone 10 consecutive matches without finding the net for his country on the big stage.

Portugal seek redemption

Manager Roberto Martinez and his squad now turn their focus to their second group stage match against Uzbekistan. Martinez has previously warned that settling for a draw in the opening fixtures would be seen as a “catastrophe”, and pressure is mounting on both the coaching staff and players to produce a sharper and more effective performance in front of goal.

With Alves’ words of encouragement echoing in his mind, Ronaldo will look to silence his critics and demonstrate that his “timeless” reputation can still be matched by game-changing performances on the pitch.

Portugal will wrap up their Group K campaign against Colombia, with the fate of their captain’s final World Cup dream hanging in the balance.