FLASH
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Portugal's 1-1 draw with the Democratic Republic of Congo at the World Cup has sparked heated debate and accusations of disunity within coach Roberto Martinez's squad. At the centre of the controversy is legendary captain Cristiano Ronaldo, who failed to register a single shot on target during the match.
After the match, Ronaldo's most ardent fans accused some of his teammates of deliberately ignoring him on the pitch.
The debate was also fueled by the footballer's sister, Katia Aveiro, who criticized Portugal's play on social media. "Suddenly they forgot how to pass forward, how to win the ball and how to organize counterattacks. The game turned into just passing back in midfield. A very strange World Cup," she wrote.
Renowned Portuguese sports journalist Vitor Pinto warned that the situation could create a "civil war" within the national team. However, he stressed that he did not believe there was an organized boycott of Ronaldo, but admitted that Portugal failed to properly include the striker in the game.
Meanwhile, midfielders Bruno Fernandes, Vitinha, Joao Neves and Pedro Neto have faced a wave of criticism on social media. Joao Neves in particular was targeted after he stated that Ronaldo is "like any other player" in the team and that everyone contributes equally.
Even sports pundits have raised questions about the 41-year-old's performance. Former France striker Thierry Henry accused Ronaldo of being selfish in a specific game, while Chris Sutton harshly criticized coach Roberto Martinez, claiming that he was afraid to replace the Portuguese star. Martinez dismissed the criticism, arguing that when the team needs a goal, a player with Cristiano Ronaldo's qualities and experience should stay on the field.
Portugal will face Uzbekistan in their next group stage match, while attention remains focused on the atmosphere inside the Portuguese camp.
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