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It Makes No Sense To Bench Player Like Ronaldo When You Need Goals: Portugal Coach Martinez After Congo Draw

By IANS News June 18, 2026 • 08:00 AM View: 108

FIFA World Cup: Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez defended his side's performance in the FIFA World Cup 2026 opener against Congo and explained the importance of Cristiano Ronaldo to the team, citing "the way he attracts defenders and uses space is valuable".

Ronaldo, who became the oldest outfield player to ever start a World Cup match, played the full 90 minutes but was unable to make a decisive impact in front of goal as Portugal Congo's Yoane Wissa cancelled out Joao Neves' opener in a compelling Group K draw.

It was Ronaldo's 23rd World Cup appearance, putting him fourth on the all-time list alongside Italian great Paolo Maldini.