"Where Is CR7?" Ronaldo Mocked After 'Zero Shots on Target' Performance, But Coach Stands By Him

"Superstar" Cristiano Ronaldo has taken the stage for his record-breaking 6th World Cup at the age of 41, but he remained silent in his opening match.

Ronaldo played the full 90 minutes in the group stage opener against the Democratic Republic of the Congo without recording a single shot on target, and Portugal drew 1-1 with the DR Congo, a team that reached the finals for the first time in 52 years.

While mockery and harsh criticism poured in from both inside and outside the stadium, Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez defended him, stating, "When you need a goal, Ronaldo needs to be on the pitch."

We bring you the story of "title contender" Portugal, now caught in a dilemma at the front line, via Sports Mug.

Reported by Jinhyeong Park | Produced by Sports News Department
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.