Cristiano Ronaldo's sister Katia Aveiro has made her feelings clear on Bruno Fernandes following Portugal's World Cup opening draw with DR Congo on Wednesday. The Manchester United midfielder played the full match alongside Ronaldo but struggled to produce the level of performance fans are accustomed to seeing from him for his country.
Portugal's Disappointing Start
Roberto Martinez's side got off to a dismal start in Houston with Joao Neves' sixth minute header later cancelled out by Newcastle United star Yoane Wissa. Despite holding 75 per cent of possession, only three shots were produced on target - leaving Ronaldo with no attempts of his own.
Fernandes also had an uninspired game, and Katia 'liked' an Instagram post from a Brazilian page commenting on the United captain's performance for his country. Featuring a picture of Fernandes, the post read: "This one here is the Raphinha for Portugal. Too much popcorn for the national team."
Ronaldo's Performance Under Fire
Ronaldo also came under criticism for his low contribution during the game, registering just 25 touches against Congo. And yet, he remained on the pitch for the entirety of the match. One Portugal fan 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."
Substitution Decision Criticized
With seven minutes remaining, Martinez opted to bring on Goncalo Ramos, taking off Vitinha - a decision that was criticised by England star 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. He is a brilliant player. He was once the playmaker, but now he is the poacher. He is not only the poacher, but he runs the estate. I don't understand some of his management. Cristiano Ronaldo was on the periphery and Martinez has to be brave enough to be the manager."
Martinez Defends Decision
Meanwhile, Martinez justified the substitution by saying it would not have made sense to take off the goalscorer when Portugal were chasing a winning goal. "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. The straight line is not the quickest way. The way he attracts defenders and uses space is valuable. When you need goals, you need a player like Cristiano Ronaldo on the pitch."
Portugal will look to bounce back from the disappointing result when they face Uzbekistan on Tuesday, June 23 (6pm). Colombia, meanwhile, one of Portugal's group opponents, beat Uzbekistan 3-1 and sit top of Group K.
