‎Portugal head coach, Roberto Martinez, has given his reasons for allowing Cristiano Ronaldo play the full 90 minutes against DR Congo on Wednesday.

‎Ronaldo failed to inspire his team, as they began their 2026 World Cup campaign with a 1-1 draw in Houston.

‎The Al Nassr forward’s display attracted a lot of criticisms, with many fans and pundits insisting he is dragging the team back.

‎But Martinez has leapt to the 41-year-old’s defence, hailing him as the best footballer in the world.

‎He said: “It made no sense at all to take off Cristiano Ronaldo, who is the best goalscorer in history, off the field when we were looking for goals.”

‎Ronaldo would be hoping to find his best form when Portugal take on Uzbekistan in their next group game.

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