Are you hiding behind Cristiano Ronaldo? Bruno Fernandes’ no-show in DR Congo raises questions
Cristiano Ronaldo has spent much of his career carrying the weight of Portugal’s expectations. Against DR Congo on June 17, however, the 41-year-old found himself carrying something else – the blame for a disappointing result that could have had deeper causes.
Portugal’s 1-1 draw in their World Cup opener quickly reignited debate over Ronaldo’s place in the team after he failed to register a shot on target. Critics pointed to another scoreless outing by the veteran forward and questioned whether his continued presence in the starting line-up limits Portugal’s attacking potential.
However, focusing solely on Ronaldo risks overlooking another stunning performance further up the pitch.
Bruno Fernandes, Portugal vice-captain, reigning Premier League Player of the Year and record holder for most assists in a single season, had a surprisingly ineffective night. Widely regarded as the creative heart of the team, Fernandes struggled to influence the proceedings and failed to create a single clear-cut chance during regular time.
Cristiano Ronaldo passed Bruno Fernandes into the opponent’s goal. Bruno returned it. Check out Cristiano’s reaction. Some conversations don’t need words. pic.twitter.com/v9ncQJQJwP— The Nassr Tribune (@AlNassrTribune) June 18, 2026
For much of the game, Ronaldo’s movement appeared designed to create space for teammates. The forward repeatedly pulled defenders out of position and opened pockets in dangerous areas. However, Portugal rarely capitalized on these openings and Fernandes was unable to provide the decisive final pass expected of a player of his calibre.
The performance sparked debate among Portugal supporters on social media, with many arguing that Ronaldo has become a convenient target whenever results disappoint.
“If Portugal’s creators couldn’t create and the attackers couldn’t score, why is Ronaldo the only one facing scrutiny? Football is a team sport, so when a team underperforms, the blame shouldn’t stop at CR7,” wrote one user on X. Portugal supporters discuss Bruno Fernandes’ impact on the game (Screenshot from X)
Several fans highlighted Fernandes’ tendency to recycle possession rather than take chances in advanced positions, especially when Portugal were looking for a winner.
“How can an attacking midfielder pass the ball back when there is an attack in the box? If you think Bruno Fernandes played well today you are not a football fan,” wrote another supporter.
FANS DIVIDED ON BRUNO’S POST
Not everyone agreed with the criticism leveled at the Manchester United midfielder. Some supporters pointed to moments when Fernandes came close to creating goals, only to be denied an assist by circumstances.
“Blaming Bruno Fernandes for this game is funny. He almost got an assist when he passed Mendes in the first half,” argued another fan.
Others referred to Joao Cancelo’s disallowed bicycle kick that came after a promising attacking move involving Fernandes but was eventually ruled out for offside.
The truth is probably somewhere in the middle. Ronaldo’s inability to threaten the goal remains a concern, especially given his importance to Portugal’s hopes to progress deep into the tournament. At the same time, elite forwards depend on service and Portugal’s creative players failed to deliver consistently against a disciplined DR Congo team.
With Uzbekistan next up on June 23, followed by a potentially decisive clash with Colombia on June 27, Portugal have little time to dwell on missed opportunities. If Roberto Martinez’s side are to fulfill their World Cup ambitions, they will need greater cohesion in attack – and that responsibility goes far beyond Ronaldo himself.
Football World Cup | FIFA World Cup Schedule | FIFA World Cup Points Table | football news
– The end
Published on:
18 Jun 2026 14:28 IST