Cristiano Ronaldo, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, has once again failed to secure a World Cup title, concluding his sixth attempt with Portugal’s premature exit in 2026. The team faced a narrow defeat against Spain, losing 1-0 in the round of 16, marking what many believe to be Ronaldo’s final appearance in a national team jersey.
Following this loss, the football community began bidding farewell to Ronaldo’s international career, with the esteemed Portuguese publication A Bola publishing a piece titled “Cristiano Ronaldo: we don’t want to ‘kill’ you, but it’s enough already.” This commentary reflects on Ronaldo’s earlier statements where he claimed critics have been trying to undermine him for 23 years.
“Fearful and Overrated Portugal”
The article goes on to assert that it is time to end the captaincy cycle, which has lasted longer than necessary. Under manager Roberto Martinez, the national team has often been labeled as both overrated and fearful. A notable criticism was the failure to include Gonçalo Ramos in the game against Spain, a decision that some viewed as emblematic of Martinez’s deficiencies as a coach.
Despite boasting a wealth of individual talent, Portugal’s performance at the World Cup was marred by two humiliating matches against Congo and Colombia. The narrative surrounding the tournament was rife with claims that Portugal was destined for victory, yet the reality on the field painted a different picture.
“Martinez and the Obsession with Ronaldo”
The responsibility for this disappointing exit falls significantly on Martinez, whose reluctance to alter the team’s dynamics in relation to Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes has been heavily criticized. The article mourns the fact that this generation of players, touted as the best ever, could not replicate the success of past Portuguese squads.
Arguments that Spain’s status as the current European champion justified Portugal’s elimination are dismissed. Critics contend that the team could have avoided this fate had they performed better in group stages, securing an easier path in knockout rounds.
With Roberto Martinez’s reign set to end in disappointment, the need for new leadership becomes urgent. His cautious approach and reliance on outdated strategies ultimately led to Portugal’s downfall in this World Cup, a fate seemingly sealed by superstitions around number six, as they were eliminated on the sixth day of the tournament.
As Jorge Jesus is poised to take over, the call for a significant shift is strong. It is suggested that Ronaldo must take a step back, as his ego may hinder the team’s performance. The upcoming Nations League, beginning in late September against Wales and Norway, will be the first test for this new direction.
