Is Cristiano Ronaldo Holding Portugal Back in the 2026 World Cup?

Ronaldo's Role Under Scrutiny After Portugal’s World Cup Opener

Cristiano Ronaldo, five-time Ballon d’Or winner, appeared more like a bystander than a driving force in Portugal’s underwhelming start to the 2026 World Cup. Despite his legendary status, questions arise about whether he still adds value on the biggest stage.

In 2025, Ronaldo admitted he no longer "dreams" of winning the World Cup, nor does failing to win it define his legacy. That last part is undeniable. Since his debut with Sporting CP in 2002, Ronaldo’s impact on soccer has been monumental. Had Lionel Messi not emerged, Ronaldo’s records might stand alone, much like the dynamic between Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic in tennis.

His trophy cabinet includes success with Portugal, including the 2016 European Championship—Portugal’s first major international title—a feat neither the golden generations of the 1960s nor the 2000s managed to achieve. The UEFA Nations League victory also adds to his national accomplishments, though some remain skeptical of its importance.

The Waning Impact on the World Stage

Maybe Ronaldo doesn’t dream of lifting the World Cup because deep down, he senses his window has closed. His performance against DR Congo, a team returning to the World Cup after decades, was telling. Ronaldo completed 90 minutes but touched the ball only 25 times, with no shots until late in the game—and all three attempts missed the target.

His clearest chance came from a poorly struck shot near the post, which might have been better taken by Bruno Fernandes, who was positioned slightly deeper. This lack of influence mirrors a troubling trend: Ronaldo has now gone 10 major tournament matches without scoring for Portugal across World Cups and European Championships.

0 - Cristiano Ronaldo has now gone 10 consecutive major tournament games without scoring for Portugal (FIFA World Cup/EURO): 33 shots, 11 on target, 0 goals.

This dry spell started after his goal against Ghana in the 2022 World Cup opener. He went scoreless in Qatar’s knockout stages and was even benched by then-coach Fernando Santos. Although he bounced back in qualifiers and the Nations League, his tournament performances have lacked spark. At 41, if Ronaldo isn’t scoring, his impact diminishes; he no longer possesses the explosive qualities that once made him unstoppable.

Saudi Pro League’s Impact on Ronaldo’s Form

Since joining Al Nassr in early 2023, Ronaldo has put up impressive numbers, netting 50 goals in all competitions during 2023–24 and scoring 28 league goals in 30 games in 2025–26, finally securing the Saudi Pro League title. Still, the league's overall quality pales compared to Europe’s top competitions, arguably inflating perceptions of his current level.

DR Congo’s defense, bolstered by players from Europe's top leagues, effectively limited Ronaldo's chances. His diminished mobility makes it difficult to shake off tight marking, especially when he remains the focal point of Portugal’s attack without sufficient creative support.

Portugal’s Next Steps

Deciding whether to bench Ronaldo is a tough call. Former coach Santos tried it in 2022, but it didn’t last. Spain made a similar decision with Raúl after the 2006 World Cup. With Roberto Martínez stepping down after this tournament, the incoming manager may feel freer to make bold choices.

Portugal's options are limited up front. Gonçalo Ramos, 24, is the only other natural striker in the squad. Once viewed as a rising star, Ramos has mostly been a backup since joining Paris Saint-Germain in 2023 and saw little action at Euro 2024.

A system that allows Ramos to move fluidly and link up with wingers and midfielders could unlock his potential. Alternatively, deploying a 'false nine' like Bernardo Silva, João Félix, or Rafael Leão might create more attacking threat.

Portugal’s upcoming match against Uzbekistan offers a chance to secure advancement in the group stage before facing Colombia. But with Ronaldo’s current form, it's unclear if the offense will improve on what was seen in their opener.