Cristiano Ronaldo‘s return to the national side didn’t go as planned. Portugal were beaten 2-0 by Slovenia, who were considered the underdogs in yesterday’s international friendly. This put a halt to Roberto Martinez & Co.’s 11-match winning streak! It was a sub-par display all around as Portugal managed just 2 shots on target despite having 64% of the possession. But, for CR7, more infuriating than the performance, was the refereeing decisions. And the Portuguese superstar did not spare the officials and he let them know his frustration.

Following the game, a raging Cristiano Ronaldo was walking towards the tunnel and could be seen making gestures with his hand. Just then, he spotted 4th official Dejan Balazic. And per several reports, the Portuguese captain told the referee, “F**k you, there are two penalty kicks” and displayed two fingers. During the match, CR7 had his penalty appeals rejected by the referee and this seems to be what irked the Portuguese talisman. But, it seems his own performance also contributed to his anger.

In 90 minutes, Cristiano Ronaldo made just 27 passes with just 1 shot on target. He lost possession 9 times and completed just 1 of his 4 dribble attempts! Portugal’s wastefulness ultimately cost them as Slovenian midfielders Adam Cerin and Timi Elsnik scored in the 2nd half to script a famous victory for their country.

Cristiano Ronaldo was absent from Portugal’s game against Sweden as he was on a family vacation. Remarkably, Roberto Martinez & Co. were utterly dominant in that encounter as they bested Sweden 5-2. Hence, could it be a coincidence that CR7’s return coincided with a dip in performance levels? The answer is not a straightforward one.

Is Portugal better off without Cristiano Ronaldo in the starting XI?

Recently, French soccer legend, Frank Leboeuf made a huge claim regarding Portugal’s chances in Euro 2024. He said, “For me, Portugal are actually one of the contenders for this summer’s European Championships. I actually think they can win the Euros, but only if Cristiano Ronaldo doesn’t play. I think his time for Portugal is done.” Having scored 30 goals this season, it seems quite harsh on the Portuguese captain. However, Lebouef is not the only person who believes Ronaldo’s time is nearing the end.

Portuguese defender, Joao Cancelo also issued a damning verdict that Ronaldo is past his prime! The fullback said, “He is an important player and spent 15 years competing with Messi for the Ballon d’Or, but the peak of a footballer’s career is between the ages of 25 and 32. He is an important player for us, but the national team does not depend entirely on him.” With Cancelo asserting that Portugal can compete without their talisman, should Roberto Martinez continue with the attack that worked wonders against Sweden?

Trending

Alex Morgan Return Update- San Diego Wave Injury Latest Vs Bay FC

April 27, 2024 04:30 PM EDT

Fact Check: Is Lionel Messi’s Mother Lebanese? Uncovering the Truth Behind Celia’s Nationality

March 30, 2024 02:46 PM EDT

NWSL Salaries – How Much Do Female Soccer Stars Earn in US?

February 23, 2024 08:11 PM EST

‘Impossible To Sign Cristiano Ronaldo’- Inter Miami’s Rival Reacts To Al Nassr Star Links After Breaking Lionel Messi’s Dream

April 27, 2024 01:30 PM EDT

Lionel Messi Drops 6-Word Message to Inspire Inter Miami’s Title Challenge After Beating New England Revolution

April 28, 2024 04:11 AM EDT

Get instantly notified of the hottest Soccer stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.

Follow Us

Nevertheless, Portugal’s forward line at Euro 2024 will make an interesting narrative.

Cristiano Ronaldo Deemed ‘Extremely Important’ For Portugal Despite Joao Cancelo’s ‘Way Past His Prime’ Claim