Ibrahimovic criticizes Ronaldo's starting role for Portugal
Legendary Swedish striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic has openly questioned Portugal's decision to rely on 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo as their starting striker at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. According to Ibrahimovic, Portugal cannot expect to win the tournament while Ronaldo leads the attack, citing his physical decline and loss of finishing ability.
"Portugal fans could have expected what's happening. You can't expect to win anything in 2026 with a 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo leading the attack. Especially since Ramos is on the bench, having come on and scored," Ibrahimovic said, as per Goal.com.
Ronaldo's decline and impact on team performance
Ibrahimovic argued that Ronaldo's selection is based more on reputation than current form. "This isn't 'legendary leadership.' It's the ego that's holding the team hostage. Ronaldo has lost his touch and mobility. Now he's just in the box... At this point, his aura is supporting him more than his legs. Continuing to start him is pure nostalgia-driven madness," he added.
Portugal secured their place in the Round of 16 with a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over Croatia. The win maintained Portugal's unbeaten record against Croatia in competitive matches and set up a clash with Spain.
Dramatic comeback against Croatia
With penalties looming, Portugal won the match in the 94th minute. Leão's cross found Ramos, who powered a header home. Deep into added time, Josko Gvardiol thought he had equalized from a scramble, but a lengthy VAR check found Igor Matanovic offside in the build-up, disallowing the goal.
Portugal's equalizer, converted from the penalty spot by Cristiano Ronaldo, was the veteran forward's first-ever goal in the knockout stages of the FIFA World Cup, achieved in his record-extending sixth appearance at the tournament.
Upcoming Round of 16 clash with Spain
Portugal will next face Spain in the Round of 16 on July 7 at 12:30 AM local time. The match promises to be a high-stakes encounter as Portugal seeks to prove their doubters wrong.
