Portugal's 2026 World Cup opening draw against DR Congo has sparked concerns about potential rifts within the national team. Cristiano Ronaldo's performance drew significant debate, as the 41-year-old forward played the full 90 minutes without a single shot on target. Among the available attacking substitutes, Goncalo Ramos entered the game only in the 83rd minute, while Joao Felix and Goncalo Guedes remained on the bench.
According to Ruben Dias, such negative reactions are not new. "Negative reactions are familiar for Portugal whenever results do not meet expectations. The focus of criticism is not directed at just one player," he said at a press conference on 19/6. "Ronaldo is a big focal point, but all of us must bear responsibility in moments like these."
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Ruben Dias at a press conference at the training center in Florida, USA, on 19/6. Photo: Abola
The Manchester City defender also denied any signs of disunity within the Portugal squad, contrary to external discussions. He stated he pays little attention to social media debates, emphasizing that the entire team remains focused on their 2026 World Cup objectives.
"There is a lot of speculation, but it does not affect our belief or certainty about what the team can achieve," Dias stressed. "I think tournaments like this are never perfect. Difficulties arriving early are better, because this is a tournament where you can only win if the team can continuously develop through each match."
Before the tournament, coach Roberto Martinez allowed the Portugal players to rest at Miami beach. Images of Ronaldo and his teammates relaxing just four days before their opening match against DR Congo garnered mixed opinions, with some suggesting a lack of focus for the World Cup.
However, Dias affirmed that the issue was exaggerated due to incomplete information. He highlighted that a properly planned rest period could positively impact the entire team's physical condition.
"That should not have become a topic of debate," the 29-year-old defender stated with frustration. "Part of the blame lies with the media, for lacking information and only showing followers what was shared. Your job is to report accurately, not to create negative energy just to attract readers and make people think there are internal problems, when in reality there are none."
Regarding the match against DR Congo, Dias noted that Portugal started well with Joao Neves's goal in the 6th minute. However, they then conceded an equalizer, leading to a loss of discipline, less effective play, and an inability to create the necessary pressure. Dias wants the team to quickly move past the result and focus on their next match against Uzbekistan on 23/6.
Main events of the Portugal 1-1 DR Congo match.
By Hong Duy (Abola, Marca)
