Cristiano Ronaldo's difficult start to the 2026 World Cup continued as Portugal were held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo, with the African side admitting they had no specific plan to stop the 41-year-old.
DR Congo midfielder Ngal Ayel Mukau revealed that his team recognised the Manchester United legend is no longer at his peak. "To be honest, not really (a plan) because we know he's not the same as before, he's a bit older now," Mukau said. "But still he's one of the greatest to ever play the game so much respect to him."
Ronaldo managed just 25 touches and three shots on target during the match, extending his barren run in major tournaments to 10 games without a goal. Portugal manager Roberto Martinez is facing questions over his use of the five-time Ballon d'Or winner as the team lacked attacking threat against the side ranked 46th in the world.
France legend Thierry Henry was critical of Ronaldo's performance, suggesting the forward's desire to score is harming the team. Henry told FOX Sports: "The team needs to score, not you. Did you see Bruno Fernandes' reaction back there, like: 'let the ball roll, make the run, create space so I can just tap it in'. It didn't happen."
Portugal face Uzbekistan in their next group match, needing a win to improve their chances of reaching the knockout stages. Colombia lead the group after a 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan.
