Cristiano Ronaldo's sister Katia Aveiro has reacted to Bruno Fernandes' performance in Portugal's draw with DR Congo in their World Cup opener. The Manchester United midfielder featured for the entire match alongside Ronaldo but they were forced to settle for a point as their campaign got off to a disappointing start.
Social Media Backlash
Katia 'liked' an Instagram post from a Brazilian account commenting on the United skipper's showing for his nation. Roberto Martinez's team endured frustration despite Joao Neves' sixth-minute header as Newcastle United star Yoane Wissa equalised. Despite controlling 75 per cent of possession, only three efforts were directed on target - leaving Ronaldo without any attempts of his own.
Fernandes also endured a lacklustre outing. Featuring a picture of the United star, the post read: "This one here is the Raphinha for Portugal. Too much popcorn for the national team."
Online Abuse Intensifies
It follows a strange surge of abuse directed towards Portuguese players and those close to them with Neves among those suffering the brunt of an online barrage. The Paris Saint-Germain star's Instagram comments were hijacked by angry Ronaldo supporters in light of his post-match comments.
He said: "We know what Cristiano (Ronaldo) has done for this national team and for the world of football. But right now, he is one of us. He is no different. He is an additional player to help and contribute to Portugal's performance just like all of us."
Vitinha and Pedro Neto have also seen their comments sections taken over with supporters demanding Ronaldo shown more respect. It has even been suggested that Neves' partner has also had her social media being bombarded by angry supporters of the five-time Ballon d'Or winner.
Ronaldo's Performance Under Scrutiny
Ronaldo also faced criticism for his limited impact during the fixture, recording just 25 touches against Congo. Yet, he remained on the pitch for the duration of the match.
One Portugal supporter wrote on X: "Ronaldo just gets in the way, and only those who don't want to see it won't. It's ridiculous that he has a guaranteed place in the national team."
Another added: "Ronaldo just sits in the box waiting for a miracle ball that never arrives."
Managerial Decisions Questioned
With seven minutes left on the clock, Martinez chose to introduce Goncalo Ramos, withdrawing Vitinha - a move that drew criticism from former England striker Chris Sutton.
"He (Martinez) is scared to take him off," Sutton told BBC Radio 5 Live. "He is not the manager. He (Ronaldo) might score the winner, but the game passed him by."
Martinez, meanwhile, defended the substitution by arguing it would have made little sense to remove the goalscorer while Portugal were pushing for a winner.
"We were finding it difficult because they were playing in a back six," Martinez hit back. "And in a situation like that, you can use his qualities. It makes no sense to get a player like Cristiano out of the game where you need goals."
Portugal's Response
Taking to Instagram following the final whistle, the Portugal icon wrote: "This was not the start we wanted but this is far from being over. Heads held high and focus on the next game."
Portugal will be keen to respond to the disappointing outcome when they take on Uzbekistan on Tuesday (6pm). Colombia, meanwhile, one of Portugal's group rivals, defeated Uzbekistan 3-1 and currently lead Group K.
