Former Manchester United superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has commented after Portugal’s 6-1 win against Switzerland.
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Cristiano Ronaldo praised his Portugal teammates’ performance after Switzerland were well beaten in the last 16 of the World Cup.
Ronaldo is the captain of his country and started every group match as they finished top of Group H. Portugal did labour at some points, though, as they only scraped past Ghana with a 3-2 victory before losing to South Korea in their final match.
Ronaldo managed only one goal, a penalty in the opening match, but it came as a surprise to many that he was axed for the game against Switzerland.
Young Benfica striker Goncalo Ramos replaced him and the manager’s decision was vindicated as a much more exciting and dynamic Portugal tore the Swiss to shreds. Ramos opened the scoring and went on to bag the first hat-trick of the tournament.
Ronaldo didn’t react well to losing his spot in the team at Old Trafford this campaign and criticised managed Erik ten Hag in an interview with Piers Morgan, saying he did not respect the Dutchman. That led to his contract being terminated by mutual consent.
But, the 37-year-old has been much more diplomatic in his reaction to Portugal’s win when compared to his fall-out with Erik ten Hag at Manchester United.
He wrote on Instagram: “Incredible day for Portugal, with a historic result in the biggest competition in world football. Luxury exhibition of a team full of talent and youth. Our Selection is to be congratulated. The dream is alive! Until the end! Strength, Portugal! ”
Ronaldo came on in the last 15 minutes and saw a goal ruled out for offside. Pepe, Raphael Guerreiro and Rafael Leao were also on the score sheet as Portgual set up a quarter-final game with Morocco.
