RONALDO JUST ANOTHER PLAYER?

Controversy erupts after Neves comment on legend; fans attack Portuguese players online

- EXPRESS NEWS SERVICE

LIONEL Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland and Harry Kane all made blistering starts to the World Cup. And then there was Cristiano Ronaldo.

The Portuguese superstar cut a frustrating figure during his team’s 1-1 draw against DR Congo on Wednesday. His 25 touches were his fewest in a game at a major tournament for Portugal while playing a full match.

It was a tame show to say the least by a player of his lofty standard. Ronaldo understandably didn’t speak to reporters after the game but he posted about the match on X. “It wasn’t the start we wanted, but this is far from over,” he wrote. “Head up and focus on the next game.” Then the sharp criticism followed.