'Ronaldo isn't the same as before': DR Congo midfielder says team didn't have special plan for Portugal legend

Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo had a horrible outing in Houston, Texas, in the FIFA World Cup 2026 clash against DR Congo. Portugal were held for a 1-1 draw as they had just three shots on target despite having 75 per cent possession in the game. Ronaldo didn’t have a single shot on target from three attempts and managed just 25 touches in the entire game. As the 41-year-old faced widespread criticism for a lacklustre display, DR Congo midfielder Ngal'ayel Mukau denied that the team did made any special plans for the legendary forward.

"To be honest, no, not really. We know that Ronaldo isn't the same as before. He's a bit older now. Still, he's one of the greatest, much respect to him. But he is older now," Ngal'ayel Mukau told the broadcasters after the game. 

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The midfielder said that Ronaldo has not been able to make the same efforts as he used to. He hailed him as one of the greatest but said that age is catching up with him. 

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Rooney backs Ronaldo while Boateng, Henry criticise him

In the post-match show on Fox, French legend Thierry Henry called out Ronaldo’s selfish act that prevented Portugal from taking a lead in the second half. Former Barcelona player Kevin-Prince Boateng feels Ronaldo should step down and give young players a chance. Boateng wants Ronaldo to come on for 15 to minutes towards the end instead of starting the game. Meanwhile, Ronaldo's former Manchester United teammate, Wayne Rooney said that the veteran is not being lazy and is getting into offside position often for a reason to create space for his teammates.

Ronaldo gets coach’s backing

Against Congo, Portugal got an early lead which was nullified towards the end of the first session. As Portugal struggled to score, their tactics were questioned. Their coach, Roberto Martinez, was asked in the post-match press conference whether he should've subbed off Ronaldo. 

He said that it wouldn't have made sense to get the 'best goal scorer in world' to leave the pitch when the team needed goals.

With few days off, it will be interesting to see if Portugal make changes for their next group stage match against Uzbekistan.