FLASH
Shkruar nga Pamfleti
Portugal started their 2026 World Cup campaign with a disappointing 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo in their opening group match. Beyond the result, the Portuguese team's performance raised many questions, especially in the offensive department.
The Portuguese recorded only seven shots throughout the match, the lowest number in a World Cup match since the match against South Korea in 2002. The statistics clearly show that the team led by the Portuguese coach must significantly improve their attacking play in the upcoming matches if they aim to go far in the tournament.
Also in the spotlight was Cristiano Ronaldo, who continues to struggle in major competitions. The 41-year-old forward has now gone 10 consecutive matches at the World Cup and European Championship without finding the net for Portugal. During this run, he has attempted 33 shots, 11 of them on target, but has failed to score.
In his sixth World Cup, Ronaldo entered the field with high expectations and the weight of a legendary career on his shoulders. However, his performance against Congo fell far short of what fans and the team had come to expect from the Portuguese captain.
The first-half figures reflected his struggles in the game. Ronaldo recorded no dribble attempts, no shots on goal, no duels won and no fouls won. He appeared isolated in the attacking department and with minimal influence on the development of the action.
The Portuguese forward also showed a cautious approach in terms of ball movement. Of the 16 passes he made in the first half, 15 were back passes, preferring safe solutions over moves that could create danger in the opposition's area.
Despite expectations for a comeback in the second half, Ronaldo failed to change the course of the match. The organized defense of the Democratic Republic of Congo completely neutralized him, limiting the spaces and opportunities to use his instincts in front of goal.
His appearance has reignited debates about Ronaldo's role and influence at this stage of his career. The pace and intensity of a World Cup require maximum physical and technical level, while Portugal needs a leader who can make the difference at crucial moments.
With the next few matches approaching, the pressure on Ronaldo and Portugal is set to increase. If they are to keep their ambitions alive at the 2026 World Cup, the Portuguese will need to show a completely different face, while their captain is still searching for the goal that could end a long and unusual run without a goal.
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