Portugal endured a frustrating start to their 2026 World Cup campaign after being held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo.
Roberto Martinez’s side made the perfect start when Joao Neves opened the scoring after just six minutes.
However, DR Congo responded strongly and eventually levelled through Yoane Wissa, who scored his country’s first-ever World Cup goal. The result sparked widespread debate across Portugal.
Several players came under scrutiny following the disappointing performance, while attention also focused on moments involving Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes during the second half.
Fernandes appeared frustrated after Ronaldo missed a promising opportunity, and criticism quickly spread across social media after the final whistle.
However, the discussion took another turn when activity from a member of Ronaldo’s family emerged online.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s sister Katia Aveiro appeared to like an Instagram post criticising Bruno Fernandes following the draw with DR Congo.
The post questioned Fernandes’ influence for the national team and claimed the Manchester United midfielder failed to step up during important moments. It read (via The Sun):
“Bruno Fernandes looks like a different player in the national team jersey.
“When Portugal needs a leader the most, he disappears from the game and leaves the responsibility on others’ shoulders.
“Lots of talent, lots of media attention, but where’s the decisiveness in the big moments?
“The fans expect a star who steps up when the pressure mounts, not someone who vanishes when the game gets tough.”
Katia Aveiro’s verified Instagram account was seen liking the post. Meanwhile, Ronaldo’s other sister Elma Aveiro also reacted to the result on social media in a bizarre manner, claiming:
“I believe beginnings are difficult, but endings are good.
“You’re the ones on the pitch. It’s easy to talk. And besides, having the victory stolen from you like that isn’t easy.”
Portugal will now look to put the controversy behind them when they face Uzbekistan in their next World Cup match.
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