Cristiano Ronaldo Claps Back at Critics Before Make-or-Break World Cup Match

Cristiano Ronaldo remains resolute in the face of some harsh criticism waged at the Portuguese star since his performance in a disappointing World Cup opener, which ended in a 1-1 draw with DR Congo.

Ronaldo has been called selfish and washed up while facing many more critiques since he appeared old and slow during his team’s defeat at the hands of the Congolese on June 17. Despite the negativity surrounding his performance and his team overall, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner is focused on the future.

“Focused on the mission,” posted Ronaldo to Instagram on Sunday.

During the loss, Ronaldo appeared immobile while taking a couple of scoring opportunities away from his teammates in self-serving fashion. He was referred to as “dead weight” by some of his detractors.

He also posted a message in response to his haters this past Wednesday, as pointed out by Newsweek’s Matt Couden.

“It wasn’t the start we wanted, but this is far from over. Head up and focus on the next game,” wrote Ronaldo last week.

Portugal will be pushing hard for a win in its upcoming matchup with Uzbekistan, a team that is appearing in its first-ever World Cup among an expanded 48-team field in 2026. The Portuguese trail Group K leader Colombia (3 points), while they sit even with DR Congo at one point apiece after the two teams’ draw this past Wednesday.

More: Cristiano Ronaldo Urged to ‘Step Down' After Selfish Performance at World Cup

This is the sixth World Cup in which Ronaldo has appeared, equaling Argentine star Lionel Messi’s all-time record. Portugal advanced past the group stage in each of the past two World Cups, reaching the quarterfinal in 2022, which was the third-best finish in the country’s history. The Seleção das Quinas finished fourth at the 2006 World Cup in Germany.

With Ronaldo still searching for a World Cup title to cap his illustrious career, the 41-year-old is focused on an improved effort entering Tuesday’s match against the Uzbeks.

The match is scheduled for 1 p.m. in Houston.

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This story was originally published June 23, 2026 at 5:05 AM.