Roberto Martinez retains Cristiano Ronaldo for crucial World Cup clash
Portugal manager Roberto Martinez will retain Cristiano Ronaldo in his starting line-up for the vital World Cup group game against Uzbekistan in Houston despite mounting pressure to drop the captain.
The 39-year-old forward faced widespread criticism after struggling to make an impact during a disappointing opening draw with DR Congo.
Calls from media and fans have intensified to replace the five-time Ballon d’Or winner with Paris St-Germain striker Goncalo Ramos.
However, Martinez remains unwilling to axe the nation’s all-time leading goalscorer for this pivotal encounter.
Camp unity amidst rift rumours
Senior figures within the Portuguese squad have publicly closed ranks to defend their talisman and dismiss talk of an internal crisis.
Manchester City defender Ruben Dias and winger Francisco Conceicao have both fiercely rejected suggestions that the former Real Madrid star is causing friction behind the scenes.
External noise was amplified when the veteran attacker’s sister, Katia Aveiro, criticised the overall team performance on social media and appeared to question the club form of midfielder Bruno Fernandes.
Villas-Boas calls for perspective
The domestic media has largely rallied behind the legendary forward, with leading sports outlet Record publishing a staunch defence of his continued selection.
Porto president Andre Villas-Boas also urged supporters to remember the ultimate objective rather than overreacting to a single frustrating result.
“Ambitions are still boundless, because it’s a golden generation. Because we also want the greatest talent in world football, the man who has given so much to Portugal, left clutching the World Cup trophy, just like Messi did in Qatar.”
Contrasting fortunes for football’s icons
The intense scrutiny on the Portuguese captain has been further magnified by the recent exploits of his long-time rival.
Lionel Messi scored a stunning hat-trick for defending champions Argentina in their opening fixture, standing in stark contrast to the struggles experienced by the Al Nassr striker.
With progression now firmly on the line against Uzbekistan, the former Manchester United forward has an immediate opportunity to silence his growing number of doubters.
