Cristiano Ronaldo's sister has launched a defence of the Portugal star after the team's disappointing 1-1 draw with DR Congo in their World Cup opener. Katia Aveiro took to social media to deflect blame from her brother, insisting that no Portugal player performed well.
Match Recap
Portugal were held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo in Houston on Wednesday. Joao Neves gave Portugal an early lead with a flicked header, but Yoane Wissa equalised with a free header just before half-time. Ronaldo started up front but failed to score, missing two chances in the second half.
Criticism and Analysis
The 41-year-old's lack of movement drew criticism from pundits. Thierry Henry, analysing for Fox Sports, hinted that Ronaldo was playing for himself rather than the team. "The team needs to score, it's not you who needs to score," said the Arsenal and France legend.
Portugal boss Roberto Martinez has consistently defended Ronaldo. After the match, Martinez stated, "It makes no sense to get the best goalscorer in world football out in a game that you need goals."
Sister's Social Media Response
Katia Aveiro expressed her views on Instagram, writing: "They magically forgot how to pass the ball, how to win the ball, how to counter-attack, the game 'rolled' back from midfield. This 'Cup' is strange. Strange. But let's go. Wrong starts, accurate finishes. Until the end."
In a video, she added: "We didn't play well, no player played well. We started the game well, but that was just the beginning. But as I've always heard: 'Bad beginnings, good endings'. Let's think positively."
Ronaldo's Record
Ronaldo became the oldest outfield player to start a World Cup match at 41 years and 132 days. He has now gone 10 consecutive matches at World Cups and European Championships without scoring for Portugal.
Despite the criticism, Martinez remains confident in Ronaldo's abilities, emphasising his experience and the space he creates for teammates.
