The main problem: Cristiano Ronaldo
The Portugal World Cup was the story of a team that failed to break free from its own myth. Cristiano Ronaldo, in this tournament, was the main problem. During 441 of the 450 total minutes, he remained on the field, imposing a protagonism that his performance no longer justified.
The emotional choice
The question is not to discuss Cristiano Ronaldo's career, nor his greatness, already recorded in the history of football. The question is to have the honesty to judge the present. And the present shows a player who, instead of elevating Portugal, ended up limiting its potential. The Portugal team continued to revolve around its icon, instead of around its most effective striker.
Roberto Martinez's responsibility
And it is here that Roberto Martinez's responsibilities become even heavier than those of his captain. Because a champion may have difficulty in accepting the end of his career; a coach, on the other hand, has the duty to take unpopular decisions. Martinez did not do it. He did not have enough courage to explain that the Portugal team needed something different, did not have the authority to take Ronaldo out of a central role that was harming the team.
What's next?
Portugal has an important upcoming match against Belgium on September 24, 2026. The Portugal team needs to find a way to overcome the defeat to Spain and regain confidence. Recently, the team lost two consecutive games, including the defeat to Spain on July 6, 2026.
Conclusion
The Portugal World Cup was a resounding failure for the Portugal team. The team failed to break free from its own myth and was defeated by a team that was not considered one of the best in the world. Roberto Martinez's responsibility is great, and the team needs to find a way to overcome the defeat and regain confidence.
