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Cristiano Ronaldo has told Portugal to keep their heads up after a frustrating start to their 2026 World Cup campaign in Houston.
The Portugal captain reacted after Roberto Martinez’s side were held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo in their Group K opener on Wednesday night.
Portugal looked in control early on. Joao Neves scored in the sixth minute, giving Martinez’s side the perfect platform against a team they were expected to beat.
But DR Congo did not fade. They stayed compact, defended with aggression and found their equaliser before half-time when Yoane Wissa headed in to make it 1-1.
Cristiano Ronaldo reacts after Portugal slip up
Ronaldo’s response after the final whistle was calm and direct.
He wrote: “Not the start we wanted, but this is far from over. Head up and focus on the next game.”
It was not a defensive message. It was a reminder that Portugal still have time to correct the performance and regain control of their group.
Ronaldo played the full 90 minutes, but this was a difficult night for the 41-year-old. Portugal had possession, yet they did not create enough clean chances for their captain or for the players around him.
Portugal already have a warning
Martinez admitted afterwards that Portugal did not do enough after scoring first. He said the team failed to reach the final third with the quality needed.
That is the concern. Portugal controlled long spells, but DR Congo deserved their point.
Ronaldo’s reaction was measured, but the message now has to be backed up. Portugal cannot afford another flat attacking display.
The response has to come on the pitch.
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