Cristiano Ronaldo criticism is just noise: Ruben Dias on Thierry Henry’s remarks

Portugal defender Ruben Dias has leapt to Cristiano Ronaldo’s defense after the experienced forward came under scrutiny following Portugal’s stunning World Cup opener. Dias dismissed the criticism surrounding his captain as “noise” and insisted the squad was focused on their campaign rather than outside opinion.

Portugal suffered a disappointing 1-1 draw with DR Congo in their Group K opener despite dominating possession and completing over 700 passes. Ahead of Portugal’s second World Cup match against Uzbekistan, Dias said criticism of Ronaldo was nothing new and something the team had learned to block over the years.

“Besides what I’ve already said, I don’t think there’s anything out of the ordinary going on. It’s always been that way since I’ve been here and I think it will continue to be that way,” Dias said.

“In the end, it’s just noise. We turn it off and focus on ourselves.”

“It is not a problem for all of us. We are united in the belief that difficulties are positive and that through them we will see what we are made of. We see them as an opportunity to create something positive,” he added.

“My mind doesn’t go that way. I don’t pay attention when those things are thrown at us. I don’t think any of us do. It shouldn’t even be a problem.”

Portugal’s frustrating start to the tournament extended Ronaldo’s goal drought at major international tournaments to 10 matches, stretching into the 2022 World Cup. The 41-year-old endured another quiet night against DR Congo and was subsequently criticized by former French striker Thierry Henry, who questioned whether Portugal’s focus on Ronaldo’s personal milestones was helping the team.

DIAS REJECTS RONALDO SPECULATION

Criticism quickly reignited the debate about Ronaldo’s role in the national team, especially afterwards Lionel Messi’s hat-trick for Argentina against Algeria earlier in the day, she reinforced the comparison between two of soccer’s biggest icons.

However, Dias has made it clear that neither Ronaldo nor the rest of the team are interested in getting involved in the noise surrounding the team. The Manchester City defender also dismissed speculation of any divisions in the dressing room, including recurring social media theories surrounding Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes.

For Portugal’s senior players, the focus remains on improving performances rather than responding to criticism from pundits or supporters.

PORTUGAL LOOK FOR THE ANSWER VS UZBEKISTAN

Despite dropping points in their opening game, Portugal remain in a good position to qualify from Group K and know that a win against Uzbekistan would greatly improve their position heading into the final round of fixtures.

Dias, who recently returned from injury, expects another difficult test and warned that Portugal must show more attacking sharpness after struggling to break down DR Congo’s disciplined defensive set-up.

“You never look for perfection in this kind of competition. I think the earlier the challenges come the better. You only win if the team has the ability to keep improving game by game,” Dias said.

“I don’t expect perfect scenarios. The most important thing is to stay grounded.”

For Portugal, this could be a key lesson from a stunning opening night. While Ronaldo continues to dominate the headlines, Martinez’s side know their World Cup ambitions will ultimately be shaped by what they do on the pitch rather than the criticism that follows them off it.

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Issued by:

Debodinna Chakraborty

Published on:

20 Jun 2026 01:58 IST