At 41, Cristiano Ronaldo has proven his doubters wrong time and time again as an elder statesman on the pitch, but a poor start to his World Cup campaign means a much-needed goal for Portugal is crucial to his footballing future.
The Portuguese player is certainly one of the best footballers in history, having won five Ballon d’Or awards, an unprecedented three UEFA Best Player awards and four European Golden Boots. FIFA named him the world’s best player five times, but a recent drought raises questions that have only increased with Portugal’s less than satisfactory start to their 2026 World Cup bid.
Portugal were one of the tournament favorites heading into their first match, but a 1-1 draw with DR Congo appears to have exposed Ronaldo. who, despite being on the field, could not score a goal for the full 90 minutes.
“We know he’s not the same as before, he’s a bit older now,” said DR Congo midfielder Ngale Ayel Mukau. in the post-game comments. “But still, he’s one of the greatest. Much respect to him.”
Can Ronaldo add another chapter against Uzbekistan?
After Ronaldo’s World Cup opener, critics pointed out that the footballer has now taken 33 shots on goal, with just 11 on target and zero on target. Fortunately, the Portuguese player and international icon, who still boasts a broken body, is still fired up and will be looking to turn things around on Tuesday.
“It’s not the start we wanted, but it’s not over,” Ronaldo said, responding to both his fans and doubters via Instagram. “Relax and focus on the next game.”
Fortunately, Portugal are heavy favorites to beat Uzbekistan in Houston when they meet on Tuesday, June 23, but all eyes will be on Ronaldo, who needs to step it up a notch to continue his reputation for footballing greatness.
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