Accra, Ghana — The 2026 FIFA World Cup commenced with a notable absence of goals from one of its most seasoned stars, as Cristiano Ronaldo failed to score during Portugal’s opening match against DR Congo.
The match, which concluded in a 1-1 draw, marked the 41-year-old’s sixth appearance at the World Cup, yet the lack of a goal stood out against the backdrop of his illustrious career.
In a game played in Houston, Texas, Portugal maintained a commanding 75% possession of the ball but were unable to capitalize on their opportunities. Ronaldo, who had entered the tournament with high expectations, was visibly disappointed after missing several chances, including a wide shot in the 68th minute and another in the 73rd. While the draw against DR Congo, a team returning to the World Cup after a 52-year absence, was not a loss, it did raise questions about Ronaldo’s fitness and form.
His performance was a stark contrast to that of other top forwards such as Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, and Lionel Messi, all of whom found the back of the net in their opening matches. Portugal’s coach, Roberto Martínez, defended his decision to keep Ronaldo on the pitch, emphasizing the importance of the veteran’s experience in the box.
However, the lack of a goal from Ronaldo has sparked discussions about whether the Portuguese team should reassess their strategy for the remainder of the tournament.
As the World Cup progresses, the spotlight will remain on Ronaldo, who will be under pressure to rediscover his scoring touch. With expectations high, the former Ballon d’Or winner will need to prove that he can still be a pivotal player on the international stage.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
—
This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: euronews sport
