Portugal media react to Bruno Fernandes and Cristiano Ronaldo performances vs DR Congo in 2026 World Cup
Image Credits: Imago Images
Portugal’s World Cup campaign began with frustration as Roberto Martínez’s side were held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo, with attention quickly turning towards the performances of Cristiano Ronaldo and Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes.
The European giants started brightly in Houston, taking the lead after just six minutes when Joao Neves found the net following an assist from Pedro Neto.
However, DR Congo refused to collapse and found an equaliser deep into first-half stoppage time, with Yoane Wissa making it 1-1 at the break before neither side could find a winner.
While Portugal controlled large periods of the match, the attacking display raised questions, with Portuguese media outlets analysing the influence of their biggest stars.
Bruno Fernandes, who enjoyed a standout season with Manchester United and picked up the Premier League assist record, received mixed reviews for his performance, with some praise for his effort to create chances but criticism over his lack of decisive impact.
Portuguese media react to Bruno Fernandes and Cristiano Ronaldo displays
Portuguese outlet Trivela rated the midfielder a 6/10, noting the expectations surrounding him after his impressive campaign at Old Trafford.
“Expectations were high after his historic season with Manchester United, and he tried his best to create opportunities, without success. He was also ‘responsible’ for Wissa’s goal.”
CNN Portugal was more critical, handing Fernandes a 4/10 rating despite acknowledging moments where he threatened DR Congo’s defence.
“If Cristiano Ronaldo had let the ball slip through his fingers, in the 69th minute, Bruno Fernandes could have put Portugal back in the lead.
“However, since this 2-1 scoreline never ceased to be somewhat metaphysical, it’s worth highlighting the moment in the first half when Bruno Fernandes found Nuno Mendes with a through ball behind the Congolese defense.
“The eternal number 8 didn’t have a bad game, but he also wasn’t what the Portuguese expect from the best player in the Premier League.”
Ronaldo was another major talking point after becoming the oldest outfield player to start a World Cup match at 41 years and 132 days old.
Trivela also gave the Portugal captain a 6/10 rating, highlighting his slow start but recognising that he had opportunities later in the match.
“He became the oldest outfield player to start a World Cup match, at 41 years and 132 days old, and was slow to get into the game.
“He had a few chances in the second half, but missed the target and will be disappointed not to have scored.”
CNN Portugal was far harsher on Ronaldo, awarding him just 2/10 and questioning whether the legendary forward can still produce at the highest level.
“Perhaps King Sebastian won’t actually return from Alcacer Quibir. And now, it remains to be seen if CR7 also stayed behind, but in Arabia.
“The national team captain was barely seen until, in the 69th minute, he opted to attempt a shot with effort instead of feinting and leaving Bruno Fernandes with only Mpasi to beat.”
They added, “CR7 had another goal opportunity after a pass from Conceicao in the 74th minute, but he was surrounded by Congolese defenders and could do little more.
“Cristiano only touched the ball 25 times, completed 19 of 21 passes, and had three shots on target.”
Portugal will now look to respond when they face Uzbekistan next Tuesday, with Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes expected to play key roles as they search for their first win of the tournament.
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