Cristiano Ronaldo's opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup was a stark reminder of the changing dynamics of international football. At 41, he became the oldest outfield player to start a World Cup match, a testament to his longevity and dedication. However, his performance against DR Congo was far from his best, raising questions about his role and impact on the team.
The statistics were telling: 25 touches, the fewest of any Portugal starter, and 10 fewer than Yoane Wissa, who scored the equaliser for DR Congo. Ronaldo's 17 backward passes and three off-target shots highlighted his struggle to find space in a disciplined Congolese defence. This performance mirrored his warm-up match against Nigeria, where he also missed big chances.
The comparison with his contemporaries, particularly Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland, and Harry Kane, is stark. While Ronaldo's presence on the pitch is undoubtedly a draw for fans, his on-field impact is being questioned. His desire to score, as evidenced by his decision to run into the path of a pass intended for Bruno Fernandes, may be counterproductive. Thierry Henry's commentary on Fox in the USA highlights this, suggesting that Ronaldo's focus on scoring can disrupt team play.
Former Ghana midfielder Kevin Prince Boateng echoed this sentiment, suggesting that Ronaldo's presence may even hinder Portugal's chances of progressing far in the tournament. Boateng's advice to Ronaldo to step down and let the young players take the reins is a call that resonates with many football enthusiasts. It raises the question: is Ronaldo's time as Portugal's primary goal-scorer coming to an end?
The challenge for Ronaldo is to adapt to a new role, one that may involve a more supporting role, allowing him to utilise his experience and influence in a different way. His ability to attract defenders and create space for his teammates could be a valuable asset, even if he isn't the primary goal-scorer. The question now is whether Ronaldo can embrace this new role and lead Portugal to success in the 2026 World Cup.
