No pressure to pass the ball to Ronaldo in World Cup: Portugal’s Conceicao
Summary
Portugal player Francisco Conceicao said teammates do not feel pressure to pass the ball to Cristiano Ronaldo and choose whoever is in the best position during the World Cup. Ronaldo’s performance in Portugal’s 1-1 draw with DR Congo received criticism, but Conceicao called him an important leader and goal scorer for the team.Key Facts
- Portugal drew 1-1 with the Democratic Republic of Congo in their World Cup opener.
- Critics questioned if 41-year-old Ronaldo’s lower mobility hurts Portugal’s chances.
- Francisco Conceicao said players pass the ball to whoever is open, not just Ronaldo.
- Ronaldo had only 25 touches in the match, his fewest in a full major tournament game.
- Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick in a previous World Cup game, highlighting a contrast.
- Former striker Thierry Henry said Ronaldo was being selfish in the match.
- DR Congo player Ngalayel Mukau said Ronaldo is not as strong as before due to age but earned respect.
- Some critics blamed Portugal coach Roberto Martinez for not substituting Ronaldo sooner, despite having options like Goncalo Ramos.
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