Portugal entered the 2026 World Cup with high expectations after assembling one of the strongest squads in the tournament.
Roberto Martinez’s side possess quality across the pitch and many supporters expect them to challenge for the trophy.
The team’s campaign began against DR Congo in their opening group-stage fixture. Portugal made the perfect start and looked set to begin the tournament with three points.
Joao Neves gave Portugal the lead after just six minutes and immediately put DR Congo under pressure. However, Portugal failed to build on that early advantage.
DR Congo gradually grew into the match and eventually found an equaliser through Yoane Wissa on the stroke of half-time.
Both sides pushed for a winner after the break, but neither could find a decisive goal. As a result, Portugal had to settle for a point in their first match of the tournament.
Much of the attention after the game focused on Cristiano Ronaldo. The 41-year-old started his sixth World Cup campaign but struggled to make a significant impact against DR Congo.
Following the draw, Thierry Henry analysed Ronaldo’s performance on FOX and highlighted what he believed was the biggest issue with the striker’s display. Henry said:
“One thing that’s important, people, please at home, the team needs to score. Not you needs to score…
“Because he wants to score, he goes in the path of the back pass, you see both players, and it’s easier for you to defend. And that’s my thing: The team needs to score. Not you.”
The former Arsenal and Barcelona forward suggested that Ronaldo’s desire to score sometimes worked against the team.
Henry believed the striker occupied spaces that made defending easier for DR Congo. The France legend also pointed to a moment involving Bruno Fernandes.
He felt the midfielder looked frustrated after Cristiano Ronaldo chose to take a shot instead of allowing Fernandes an opportunity.
The comments quickly gained attention online and generated strong reactions across social media.
Many supporters agreed with Henry’s assessment and questioned whether Ronaldo should start Portugal’s remaining group-stage matches.
Others, however, felt the criticism was too harsh given Ronaldo’s status and achievements in the game.
The statistics from the match reflected a difficult evening for the Portugal captain. Cristiano Ronaldo managed three shots and recorded only 25 touches throughout the contest.
Meanwhile, questions are likely to continue surrounding Portugal’s attack ahead of their next matches. Goncalo Ramos remains an option if Martinez decides to make changes.
For now, Martinez continues to back his captain. However, Henry’s comments have added fresh debate over Ronaldo’s role after Portugal’s frustrating draw against DR Congo.
Really good analysis from Henry. This is the Ronaldo issue right now.
He’s playing as a 9, but he’s never been a 9 and he’s not acting as a 9. Not giving Portugal those traits and it hurt them today. pic.twitter.com/yjSaOK2J5J
— Marc Geschwind (@MarcGeschwind) June 17, 2026
Want to get the latest transfer news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
