Portugal Boss Roberto Martínez Defends Ronaldo Amid Criticism

Portuguese head coach Roberto Martinez has backed Ronaldo after the skipper played another full 90 minutes of the game in the final group encounter against Columbia.

Portugal’s failure to hack Columbian defence only left them finish second after the barren draw. This raised strong criticism for the 41 year-old forward and the amount of game time he gets.

Fans across the globe raised concern that Ronaldo’ inability to track back to help in defence, limited link up play, and other factors are enough to have the ex Madrid man get limited play time.

Argentine marksman Lionel Messi and Norwegian talisman Erling Haaland, whom are both ahead of the Portuguese skipper in goal contributions at the tournament, were both being rested by their various nations for the third game of the group.

Martinez dismissed comparisons with other ⁠players' game-time. "Obviously we don't compare players in our team with other players to make decisions. I think that would be quite childish and very unprofessional," he told reporters.

"Cristiano is used to being in the right place at the right time. It's more a question of mentally being strong and always being disciplined in his position.” Martínez stressed that Portugal’s decisions are guided by performance data and tactical needs rather than outside opinions.

He said Ronaldo’s experience, leadership and understanding of the game continue to make him an indispensable figure, adding that there are no physical or mental concerns about the 41-year-old playing every minute so far at the tournament.

Roberto Martinez went on to tell that any future decision on Ronaldo’s playing time is dependent on the team’s tactical requirements, though he has not made a final decision on who begins in the round of 32 game against Croatia.