After Lionel Messi, Kyilan Mbappe, Erling Haaland and Harry Kane opened their 2026 World Cup accounts, it was a rough evening for Cristiano Ronaldo in front of goal.
Zero shots on target, one pass in the final third and just 25 touches, Portugal’s star could not make an impact in their 1-1 draw with DR Congo.
Legendary French striker Thierry Henry voiced his concerns with Ronaldo’s performance, highlighting how his positioning may be restricting Portugal’s attacking options.
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
Photo: REUTERS/Phil Noble
