The Democratic Republic of Congo didn’t just escape with a point on Wednesday. They walked off the pitch in Lisbon with something far more valuable: respect. After a 1-1 draw that felt like a loss for Portugal, the Congolese players celebrated as if they’d won the tournament. And honestly, they had every right to.
Portugal came in as the clear favorite against the world’s 46th-ranked team. What followed was a disjointed, frustrating performance that has fans and analysts alike questioning head coach Roberto Martinez’s strategy. The Portuguese managed just one goal — an early strike in the 7th minute — and then spent the next 83 minutes trying and failing to manufacture a second.
The Ronaldo Problem
Cristiano Ronaldo spent most of the match hovering near the box, waiting for a perfect cross that never arrived. Congo’s defense, physical and well-organized, simply erased him from the game. When he did get a look, he whiffed. Ronaldo is 39 now, and while his resume is untouchable, his movement is not what it once was. He doesn’t stretch defenses, he doesn’t create space, and he doesn’t track back to help build possession.
Fans online were quick to note the contrast with Lionel Messi, who scored a hat trick against Algeria by roaming all over the pitch. Ronaldo stayed parked near the goal line. The result was a Portugal attack that looked predictable and slow.
Why Benching Ronaldo Makes Sense Now
There are four clear arguments for Martinez to sit his captain in the next match against Uzbekistan. First, Ronaldo’s physical limitations are no longer a secret — he lacks the pace and stamina to be a constant threat. Second, his teammates are forced to serve him rather than play their natural game. Bruno Fernandes, Pedro Neto, Bernardo Silva, and Rafael Leão all thrive when the ball moves quickly and unpredictably. Instead, they’re aiming crosses at a stationary target.
Third, Portugal has the depth to play without him. Move Fernandes into a central striker role, let Vitinha control possession early, and unleash the wingers. This squad is too talented to score one goal because the entire attack is built around one aging star. Fourth, and perhaps most important, Ronaldo could be devastating as a late-game substitute. Fresh legs and a point to prove in the final 20 minutes might actually work better than 90 minutes of him trying to summon magic that isn’t there anymore.
Martinez hasn’t indicated any lineup changes yet. But the pressure is mounting. Portugal’s next match is a must-win, and the clock is ticking on the Ronaldo-as-automatic-starter era.
Leave a Comment