Updated
Updated · ESPN · Jun 18
Ronaldo Defends Portugal's 1-1 Draw With Congo DR as 41-Year-Old Eyes Next World Cup Game
Updated
Updated · ESPN · Jun 18

Ronaldo Defends Portugal's 1-1 Draw With Congo DR as 41-Year-Old Eyes Next World Cup Game

3 articles · Updated · ESPN · Jun 18

Summary

  • Cristiano Ronaldo said Portugal's World Cup opener was not as poor as the 1-1 scoreline suggested, insisting after 90 minutes in Houston that "nothing was lacking" despite the dropped points.
  • One shot on target from Portugal's dominant possession undercut that defense, while Ronaldo missed all three of his attempts in a subdued display.
  • The draw gave Congo DR its first-ever World Cup point and left Portugal needing a stronger result against Uzbekistan on Tuesday before a June 27 group finale with Colombia.
  • Ronaldo, 41, became one of only two players to appear in six World Cups alongside Lionel Messi, but he is still without a non-penalty goal at a major international tournament since June 19, 2021.

Insights

With Portugal struggling despite massive possession, is Ronaldo's legendary status now a help or hindrance to their World Cup ambitions?
Can Congo DR's historic resilience and first World Cup point spark an underdog run, or was this a one-off against a disjointed Portugal?