Portugal manager Roberto Martínez has dismissed comparisons between Cristiano Ronaldo and other global superstars as “childish” following his side’s goalless draw against Colombia. The result meant Portugal missed out on topping their group, having previously drawn against DR Congo, with their solitary group-stage victory being a 5-0 thumping of Uzbekistan. Despite early qualification for the Round of 32 being secured after the first two matchdays, the team’s inability to secure the top spot has raised questions about their tactical setup and reliance on ageing personnel.
At the centre of the debate is the 41-year-old Ronaldo, who has played every single minute of the tournament so far. Whilst he managed a brace against Uzbekistan, his overall performances have drawn substantial criticism from pundits and supporters alike, with many questioning whether the veteran forward should be starting every match.
The scrutiny intensified after rival managers opted to manage the workloads of their primary assets. Norway rested Erling Haaland for their crucial fixture against France, whilst Argentina benched Lionel Messi for their clash against Jordan. When reporters used these examples to question Martínez about his refusal to rest Ronaldo, the Spanish tactician responded defensively.
Martínez remains steadfast in his belief that the veteran forward possesses the physical and psychological fortitude required to endure the tournament’s gruelling schedule. He emphasised that Ronaldo is accustomed to operating at the highest level, stating that the player’s presence is a matter of mental strength, discipline, and creating space within the attacking framework.
The manager did, however, concede that squad rotation might be necessary as the knockout stages progress, though he clarified that this principle applies to the entire squad rather than Ronaldo exclusively.
Portugal now face a treacherous path in the tournament as a direct consequence of finishing as runners-up. A formidable Round of 32 clash against Croatia awaits them, with a potential round-of-16 showdown against reigning European champions Spain looming on the horizon. Martínez, however, remains unfazed by the daunting fixtures ahead. He maintained that the group stage served its purpose in helping the team reach peak condition, asserting that the knockout rounds represent an entirely different tournament where possession and control will be paramount.
