Cristiano Ronaldo has ignited a fresh controversy by publicly endorsing a social media post that accuses FIFA of favouring Argentina during the World Cup. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner liked a video from the Instagram account @espejopublico, which claimed the governing body assisted Argentina's path to the final. The post surfaced the day after Argentina lost 2-1 to Spain in the final, with Ferran Torres scoring the extra-time winner.
Ronaldo's Social Media Endorsement
Eagle-eyed fans noticed that Ronaldo liked the contentious post, which amplified existing conspiracy theories. Argentina faced widespread criticism during the knockout stages, particularly after a controversial quarter-final victory over Egypt. In that match, Egypt had a goal disallowed by VAR following a foul earlier in the move, and they were denied a penalty moments before Argentina's decisive winner. Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan voiced his fury after the final whistle, fueling allegations of bias.
Controversial Knockout Run
Argentina's semi-final against England also sparked debate, as they staged a dramatic comeback to win. After the final defeat to Spain, a mass brawl broke out, with Argentina's Leandro Paredes attacking several Spanish players. FIFA has since launched an investigation into the unsavoury scenes, which could result in fines or suspensions.
Ronaldo's World Cup Farewell
Ronaldo, meanwhile, confirmed that the 2026 World Cup was his last after Portugal were eliminated by Spain in the round of 16. He said: "I'm sad to leave the World Cup this way. As I said yesterday, I gave it my all, and I leave with a clear conscience. That's the life of a footballer. You have to move forward. It was my last World Cup, yes, but as for the rest, there's time to think, to be with my family, and not say things in the heat of the moment."
He added: "Now is not important whether I will continue [to play]. Tomorrow I will get up the same way I got up today: with a clear conscience. I played 23 years in the national team and won three titles. Before Cristiano, Portugal had not won anything. The Euros was the most important. For me, 2016 has the same dimension as a World Cup, honestly."
Legacy and Rivalry
Ronaldo will retire without ever winning the World Cup, meaning he will always be overshadowed by Lionel Messi, who lifted the trophy with Argentina in 2022. Messi came close to a second title but was denied by Spain. The rivalry between the two football icons continues to fuel debate, with Ronaldo's latest social media activity adding fuel to the fire.
