Portugal boss Roberto Martinez was slammed as “embarrassing” for refusing to substitute Cristiano Ronaldo in a disappointing 1-1 draw against DR Congo at the World Cup.
Ronaldo, competing in his sixth World Cup, struggled to get involved in proceedings as Portugal struggled to break down a defiant Congo side in Houston.
The 41-year-old has now not scored in 10 consecutive games at major tournaments and it was noticeable that Martinez opted not to take off his star man, despite a largely anonymous display.
Commentating on the match for BBC Radio 5 Live, ex-England striker Chris Sutton criticised Martinez, insisting he is “scared” to take Ronaldo off the pitch.
“That is embarrassing,” said Sutton, when striker Goncalo Ramos was brought on in the 83rd minute for midfielder Vitinha instead of Ronaldo. “That is embarrassing for Roberto Martinez.
“Are we all watching a different game to Martinez? He is scared to take him off. He is not the manager. He might score the winner, but the game has passed him by.
“He is a brilliant player. He was once the playmaker, but now he is the poacher. He is not only the poacher, but he runs the estate.
“I don't understand some of his management. Cristiano Ronaldo was on the periphery and the game passed him by.
“Martinez has to be brave enough to be the manager. He is not the manager of the Portugal team and that is their issue.”
Ex-England captain Wayne Rooney, formerly a teammate of Ronaldo at Manchester United, was critical of Portugal’s overall display in their opener in North America.
“The first game of the group is so important and for Portugal to perform the way they have performed, you want to see more energy,” he said. “I want to see more legs in the team. I want to see players run past Cristiano Ronaldo at times.
“I think it was a poor performance from Portugal.”
Ronaldo, with 229 caps and 143 goals to his name, is looking to become the first player to score in six World Cups this summer. Portugal next face Uzbekistan on Tuesday.
Read More10 men and a statue: Portugal are sacrificing another World Cup for Cristiano Ronaldo’s ego
Pele, Maradona or Messi at No 1? The 50 greatest players in World Cup history
Lionel Messi makes World Cup history with record-equalling hat trick
England v Croatia LIVE: Latest score and updates from World Cup 2026 clash
Ronaldo and Portugal frustrated by DR Congo in shock World Cup draw - live reaction
World Cup 2026 TV schedule: How to watch every game on BBC and ITV in the UK
