Ronaldo Faces Uncertain Status as Martínez Stays Silent on Lineup

Portugal coach Roberto Martínez has refused to confirm whether Cristiano Ronaldo will retain his place in the starting lineup for Portugal’s FIFA World Cup 2026 group-stage match against Uzbekistan, fueling speculation about the veteran forward’s role in the team. The uncertainty follows Portugal’s disappointing 1-1 draw against Congo in their tournament opener, a match in which Ronaldo struggled to make a significant impact and failed to find the back of the net.

Speaking ahead of Tuesday’s fixture, Martínez said he would not reveal his starting eleven before informing his players. Ronaldo, now 41, came under scrutiny after missing several promising scoring opportunities during the second half of the opening match. The Portuguese captain was also criticized by television analysts and social media users, with some questioning why he remained on the pitch for the entire game despite Portugal’s attacking difficulties.

Martínez dismissed suggestions that external criticism would affect the squad, stressing that pressure and public debate are inevitable during a World Cup. He said the team remains united and focused on improving its performances as the competition progresses. The coach added that some of the criticism directed at his players had been unfair and unjust, although he did not specifically mention Ronaldo while making those remarks.

Also Read: Ronaldo Dismisses Reporters At Training After Portugal's Disappointing World Cup Start

Ronaldo has remained positive despite the scrutiny. Shortly after the draw against Congo, he posted a message on social media acknowledging that Portugal did not get the start it wanted but insisting that the campaign was far from over. He later shared images from a training session and reiterated his commitment to the team’s objectives, emphasizing that the squad remains focused on its mission.

The tournament has already added another chapter to the long-running rivalry between Ronaldo and Argentina star Lionel Messi. Both players became the first men to appear in six FIFA World Cups. Ronaldo is still chasing the distinction of becoming the first footballer to score in six different World Cup tournaments. Messi, meanwhile, has enjoyed a prolific start to the competition, scoring five goals in Argentina’s opening two matches and extending his all-time World Cup goal tally.

Despite Ronaldo’s modest display against Congo, Martínez expressed confidence in the striker’s ability to influence matches. He described Ronaldo as one of the best players at creating movement and finding space in attacking areas. Uzbekistan coach Fabio Cannavaro also warned his players against underestimating the Portuguese star, saying Ronaldo remains capable of scoring from virtually any situation and requires constant defensive attention throughout the match.

Also Read: Ronaldo Under Scrutiny as Portugal Prepares for Uzbekistan After DR Congo Stalemate