Cristiano Ronaldo endured a difficult outing in Portugal's World Cup opener against DR Congo, and the opposition's admission has laid bare his declining influence. DR Congo midfielder Ngal Ayel Mukau revealed that his team did not devise a specific plan to stop the 41-year-old icon during their 1-1 draw.
No Special Plan for Ronaldo
Speaking after the match, Mukau stated: 'To be honest, not really (a plan) because we know he's not the same as before, he's a bit older now. But still he's one of the greatest to ever play the game so much respect to him. When you get old, it's not the same efforts you can make but still too much respect, he's one of the greatest to play the game.'
Ronaldo managed only 25 touches over 90 minutes and registered three shots, all on target, but failed to make a significant impact. Portugal labored to a point against the African side, ranked 46th in FIFA's world rankings, raising questions about manager Roberto Martinez's tactics.
Scrutiny Over Ronaldo's Role
Martinez faces growing scrutiny over his use of the five-time Ballon d'Or winner, as Portugal lacked an attacking edge. Ronaldo's drought in major tournaments has now extended to 10 World Cup and European Championship games without a goal, with 33 shots and only 11 on target in that span.
France legend Thierry Henry criticized Ronaldo's decision-making during the match. Speaking on FOX Sports, Henry said: 'One thing that's important, please... people at home... the team needs to score, it's not you who needs to score. Look here. Portugal has the ball, Conceicao is going to receive the ball. Cristiano Ronaldo has been in this situation several times. If you make that run there [in the opposite direction of the ball], you force the defender to make a decision to close that area. But because he wants to score, he goes in Bruno Fernandes' path. If he went to that small area - he's been in that situation before - the defender would have to follow him, and then it would be an easy goal (tap-in) for Bruno Fernandes. But because he wants to score, he crosses the path of the back pass, you see the two players and it becomes easier for the defense to intercept. And that's my point: 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.'
World Cup Group Standings
Colombia top the group after a 3-1 win over Uzbekistan. Portugal must overcome Uzbekistan in their next match to move closer to knockout qualification and avoid relying on a best third-placed finish.
