a few seconds ago“This is football” Ronaldo's first reaction following Portugal's disappointing match against Congo
Periskopi(13 hours ago)
(13 hours ago)Cristiano Ronaldo has come to the defense of his associates following Portugal's 1-1 draw to the Democratic Republic of Congo in the 2026 World Cup opening match, held in Houston.
Despite a poor performance by the Portuguese national team, the veteran attacker stressed that there is no reason for panic and that the team must press ahead with confidence for next group matches.
After the match, Ronaldo stopped for the media while giving autographs outside the stadium and spoke about sports TV, commenting on the team's performance in a difficult duel against a physical and organised opponent. Portugal went first to the advantage, but it was equated by Yoane Wissa, closing the meeting by one point for each team.
Despite apparent disappointment at the moment of the last whistle, Ronaldo refused to criticize the team and took a positive stand.
“What was missing? Nothing's missing, this is football. Portugal could have won, but it could have lost. It could have gone in both directions”, he said, protecting his team after 90 difficult minutes.
Later, he reacted to social networks, sending a message to Portuguese fans and camp. Acknowledging the unhappy outcome, he demanded that the team remain focused and united on future challenges.
It wasn't the beginning we wanted, but this is far from the end of”, Ronaldo wrote. He also added the call: “KOK upstairs and focus on next match”.
On a personal note, the match marked another record for 41-year-old, who became the oldest player representing Portugal in a grand tour, passing Pepe's previous record, who attended the match by the Tributes.
