Congo DR hold Portugal 1–1 and Ronaldo chaos erupts

Portugal held 1–1, the post-match storm is all about Ronaldo

Your team walked into the World Cup and did not blink. Congo DR 1–1 Portugal in the Group K opener, and the entire conversation since has been about Cristiano Ronaldo, not the result (1) (7). Portugal dominated possession but could not break through. Rúben Dias was blunt afterwards: "There are so many theorists that people have already realised what went wrong" (1). Tuanzebe and the backline kept Ronaldo quiet all night.

Neves: Ronaldo 'just another player'

João Neves lit the fuse. "We know what Cristiano did for us, but now he is not different from us. He is just another player to help. He is no different from the rest," the Portugal midfielder said after the match (5). The comment split fans instantly. Some called it disrespectful. Others called it a sign the squad is moving on (5) (7).

Henry and Carvalhal push back

Thierry Henry went on air to defend his old rival. "Cristiano Ronaldo will never be a problem, he is a solution" (6). Henry pointed the finger at Portugal's setup, not the player. Carlos Carvalhal echoed the sentiment: "We cannot attribute what happened only to Cristiano Ronaldo" (8). Two voices from opposite corners of the game, same verdict.

Ronaldo's sister steps in

Kátia Aveiro did not stay quiet. Cristiano Ronaldo's sister posted after the match calling the treatment of her brother "very strange" and reigniting the debate around the Portugal camp (4). A Dutch columnist added fuel, writing that Ronaldo "looked like a dying rabbit" because teammates refused to pass him the ball (2).