The spotlight remains firmly on Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of Portugal’s World Cup meeting with Uzbekistan, but head coach Roberto Martinez has refused to reveal whether the veteran forward will keep his place in the starting lineup.
Portugal’s all-time leading goalscorer endured a frustrating opening match against DR Congo, failing to find the net as the European giants were held to a 1-1 draw.
The result immediately raised questions over Ronaldo’s role, especially after the 41-year-old recorded just 25 touches during the match.
Speaking ahead of the Uzbekistan fixture, Martinez avoided giving away his team selection plans when asked if Ronaldo would continue from the start.
“I can’t inform you about the starting 11 because I haven’t informed my players,” Martinez said on Monday when asked if Ronaldo would remain in the line-up.
The Portugal boss also dismissed the growing criticism surrounding his captain, insisting that pressure and outside noise are expected when competing on football’s biggest stage.
“We are playing a World Cup so of course we have a lot of noise and tension, but it’s part of the game.
“The focus is on the team and we want to show a positive attitude … to be ready for the match. We are very much focused. We are strong. The team is even more united than before.”
Ronaldo’s performance against DR Congo extended his goal drought in major international competitions to 10 matches, leading to debate about whether Portugal should adjust their attacking approach.
However, Martinez believes the criticism directed towards his players has gone too far and defended the value Ronaldo still brings to the squad.
While he did not directly name Ronaldo when discussing the criticism, the Portugal coach described some of the reaction as “unfair” and “unjust”.
Despite the difficult opening game, Martinez remains confident that Ronaldo’s movement, experience and finishing ability can still make the difference during the tournament.
“Cristiano is the best one to do that,” he added.
“The numbers support this of this iconic player who is Cristiano Ronaldo. If you look at the past 32 games, he is the player that has extra movement opening spaces and finding pockets.”
Portugal know a positive result against Uzbekistan would strengthen their position in the group and ease pressure heading into the final stages of the competition.
For Ronaldo, the match represents another opportunity to silence doubts and remind the world why he remains one of football’s most influential figures.
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