2026 World Cup: Why I didn’t substitute Ronaldo against DR Congo – Martinez

Portugal head coach, Roberto Martinez, has given his reasons for allowing Cristiano Ronaldo play the full 90 minutes against DR Congo on Wednesday.

Ronaldo failed to inspire his team, as they began their 2026 World Cup campaign with a 1-1 draw in Houston.

The Al Nassr forward’s display attracted a lot of criticisms, with many fans and pundits insisting he is dragging the team back.

But Martinez has leapt to the 41-year-old’s defence, hailing him as the best footballer in the world.

He said: “It made no sense at all to take off Cristiano Ronaldo, who is the best goalscorer in history, off the field when we were looking for goals.”

Ronaldo would be hoping to find his best form when Portugal take on Uzbekistan in their next group game.