Cristiano Ronaldo shared training pictures with Portugal teammates on social media as the team gears up for their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group stage match against Uzbekistan on Tuesday, June 23. The 41-year-old captain posted multiple images from the session on X with the caption, 'Focused on the mission.'
Ronaldo's difficult opening match
The post follows Portugal's 1-1 draw against DR Congo in their opening match, where Ronaldo struggled to make an impact. He finished the match with 25 touches, three shots without hitting the target, and won only one duel, reflecting tight marking by the DR Congo defence.
It was one of the lowest involvement games of his World Cup career, marking the second-fewest touches he has ever recorded in a World Cup start. The frustration adds to growing concern over his form in major tournaments, as Ronaldo has now gone 10 consecutive matches without scoring in major competitions.
Ruben Dias dismisses criticism as 'noise'
Portugal defender Ruben Dias downplayed recent criticism directed at Ronaldo, describing the surrounding talk as 'noise' and part of football. Speaking after recent external chatter, Dias said the team remains unaffected and focused on its objectives.
'It's not an issue for us,' Dias insisted as quoted by One Football. 'It's insignificant, just a bit of fuss and noise. It's all part of the game.'
'First and foremost, the criticism isn't directed at just one player. Cristiano is a major focus of attention, but I think we're all in the firing line. Above all, apart from what I've just said, I don't think anything out of the ordinary is happening. It's always been like this since I've been here. I believe it will continue to be so in the future. In the end, it's noise. We isolate ourselves from it and focus on doing our thing,' he added.
Portugal's upcoming match and campaign outlook
With Portugal aiming to bounce back in their next fixture against Uzbekistan, attention will remain on Ronaldo and the team's response as they continue their World Cup campaign. The match is crucial for Portugal to secure points in Group stage progression.
