Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal answered their critics on the field Tuesday with a 5-0 rout of Uzbekistan, bouncing back from a disappointing Game 1 draw against DR Congo to take charge of Group K at the World Cup.
Ronaldo failed to put a shot on goal against DR Congo in that opener. The lackluster effort prompted criticism and questions about whether the 41 year old should still play such a prominent role in Portugal's offense. On Tuesday he led Portugal with two goals in the win over Uzbekistan.
Ronaldo on the criticism after Game 1
After answering on the field, Ronaldo shared his thoughts in his postgame news conference on the response to his play in Portugal's Game 1 draw.
I can say it was a very tough week, a difficult week. A week where the public criticism was very harsh on us, all the players and especially on me and the coach. But that's how it is. No, it doesn't bother me, because, as you know I've been a professional for 23 years. Whenever things are going well, Cristiano is great. When they're not, he's finished and too old. It will always be that way.
Ronaldo is playing in his sixth World Cup and is widely regarded on the short list of best players of not only his generation, but of all time. In the eyes of most, his contemporary rival Lionel Messi has surpassed him on both fronts. Messi led Argentina to the 2022 World Cup and has five goals in two games in Argentina's quest to repeat. He is also the all time leading goal scorer in World Cup play.
Ronaldo shuts down question about Messi
Ronaldo was asked about Messi during his news conference and wanted no part of it. The Portugal striker immediately moved on to the next question once Messi's name came up.
Ronaldo said that after turning his head, inviting a question from another reporter as soon as Messi's name was uttered.
Group standings and a possible quarterfinal path
Portugal and Argentina are in different groups. Argentina has clinched the top of Group J. With Portugal's win Tuesday, it has four points at the top of Group K. Its place in the knockout round will not be determined until its group play finale against Colombia on Saturday.
As things stand, Portugal and Argentina are on track for a potential clash in the quarterfinals on July 12. Portugal would need to win Group K, and both teams would have to win two knockout round games to get there. If they do, the entire world will be watching.
