Source : INDIA TODAY NEWS
Portugal’s underwhelming start to the 2026 FIFA World Cup has sparked sharp criticism of both the team and captain Cristiano Ronaldo, with questions being raised over their form and chemistry despite high pre-tournament expectations. The European side narrowly progressed from the group stage after a mixed campaign that included a lone dominant win over Uzbekistan and tense draws against DR Congo and Colombia.
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The criticism has intensified following their laboured performances in the final group match, where Portugal struggled to impose themselves despite boasting a star-studded midfield and attack.
“There’s a lack of joy, a lack of happiness, a lack of creativity,” former Portugal international Ricardo Quaresma said, as quoted by Reuters. “They looked tired, unmotivated,” he added, reflecting on the team’s subdued displays across the group stage.
Portugal were held in a goalless and scrappy encounter by Colombia at Miami Stadium on June 28, in Group K, a match that saw both sides create chances but fail to find a breakthrough. Colombia finished with 24 shots compared to Portugal’s 13, including six on target, while the European side struggled to convert possession into meaningful opportunities. A late header from Davinson Snchez was ruled out for offside by the narrowest of margins, denying Colombia a late winner.
PORTUGAL’S LACK OF COHESION UNDER SPOTLIGHT
The performance of Portugal’s much-vaunted midfield trio—Bruno Fernandes, Joo Neves and Vitinha—has also come under scrutiny, with questions raised over their inability to consistently create chances in key moments. Despite Fernandes’ reputation as one of Europe’s leading creators, Portugal’s attacking rhythm has appeared disjointed, with minimal penetration in the final third across multiple matches.
Portugal’s struggles have triggered wider debate over their tactical balance and team chemistry heading into the knockout rounds. While individual talent remains unquestioned, the side has yet to function cohesively as a unit, with their slow tempo and lack of creativity proving costly against well-organised opposition.
Despite advancing to the next stage, the performances have raised concerns about whether Portugal can realistically challenge the tournament favourites unless significant improvements are made in attacking coordination and midfield control. Portugal and Ronaldo will next face his former teammate Luka Modric-led Croatia in the Round of 32 on July 3.
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SOURCE :- TIMES OF INDIA
