Portugal coach Roberto Martinez refuses to confirm Cristiano Ronaldo’s place in the starting lineup against Uzbekistan after the veteran forward endured a disappointing FIFA World Cup 2026 opener against Congo.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Cristiano Ronaldo’s place in Portugal’s starting XI has become a major talking point ahead of their crucial FIFA World Cup 2026 clash against Uzbekistan. Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez declined to confirm whether the 41-year-old superstar would start the match, sparking widespread speculation about Ronaldo’s role in the team following a frustrating performance in the tournament opener.
Portugal were held to a 1-1 draw by Congo in their first World Cup match, with Ronaldo failing to find the back of the net despite receiving several promising opportunities. The veteran striker was heavily criticized by television pundits and fans on social media after missing key chances in the second half. Questions were also raised over Martinez’s decision not to substitute Ronaldo as Portugal struggled to break down their opponents.
Addressing the growing debate, Martinez remained tight-lipped about his team selection. “I can’t inform you about the starting 11 because I haven’t informed my players,” the Portugal coach said during a press conference ahead of Tuesday’s encounter.
Despite the criticism surrounding his captain, Martinez insisted that external noise would not affect the squad’s focus. He emphasized that scrutiny is part of competing at the highest level and reiterated that the team remains united ahead of a must-win fixture.
“We are playing a World Cup, so of course we have a lot of noise and tension, but it’s part of the game,” Martinez explained. “The focus is on the team, and we want to show a positive attitude and be ready for the match. We are very much focused. We are strong. The team is even more united than before.”
While avoiding direct comments about Ronaldo’s performance, Martinez suggested that some of the criticism aimed at his players had been unfair and unjustified.
Ronaldo himself has remained publicly positive since the draw. Shortly after the match, the Portuguese icon posted on social media: “It wasn’t the start we wanted, but this is far from over. Head up and focus on the next game.” He later shared training photos with the caption, “Focused on the mission,” signaling his determination to bounce back.
The tournament has already seen Ronaldo achieve another historic milestone. Alongside Argentina captain Lionel Messi, he became one of only two male players to appear in six FIFA World Cups. Ronaldo now has another record in sight as he aims to become the first player in football history to score in six different World Cup tournaments.
Martinez remains convinced that Ronaldo can still play a decisive role for Portugal. The coach pointed to the forward’s movement, experience, and goal-scoring instincts as valuable assets for the national team.
“Cristiano is the best one to do that,” Martinez said. “The numbers support this iconic player. If you look at the past 32 games, he is the player that creates extra movement, opens spaces, and finds pockets.”
Meanwhile, Uzbekistan head coach Fabio Cannavaro has warned his players not to underestimate Ronaldo despite his struggles in the opening match. Cannavaro stressed that the Portuguese legend remains one of the most dangerous players in world football.
“We need to be careful when we are in the box because we cannot leave this kind of player alone,” Cannavaro said. “We need to be very focused on him because Cristiano can score in every situation—free kicks, open play, or even from a corner.”
With Portugal seeking their first victory of the tournament, all eyes will be on Martinez’s team selection and whether Cristiano Ronaldo retains his place in the starting lineup for what could be a defining match in Portugal’s FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign.
