Cristiano Ronaldo could not hide his disappointment after being substituted during Portugal's 2-1 World Cup victory over Croatia. The 41-year-old Al Nassr star had played every minute of the tournament until manager Roberto Martinez replaced him in the 81st minute. Ronaldo pulled a face, paused, and reluctantly left the pitch, clearly frustrated with the decision.
Ronaldo's First World Cup Knockout Goal
Ronaldo had already made his mark by scoring Portugal's equaliser from the penalty spot after Ivan Perisic had given Croatia the lead. This was his first-ever goal in the knockout stages of the World Cup. Earlier, he had a goal ruled out for offside. Despite his contribution, Martinez opted to bring on Ruben Neves for the final stretch.
Commentator Matt Upson observed on BBC Radio 5 Live: "Look at his face. Straight away, the shake of the head and the disappointment. He couldn't hide it." Stephen Warnock added: "Cristiano Ronaldo is not happy. He is not happy at all. Take the name out of it, it is the right decision. Cristiano Ronaldo hasn't affected the game enough. Yes, he scored the penalty. The link-up play, the pressing, it is not there from him. For the good of the team, that is what Roberto Martinez has to think about. You have got to put your ego aside and think of the bigger picture."
Portugal Advances to Last 16
Croatia pushed for an equaliser but were denied in dramatic stoppage time. Portugal held on for a 2-1 win, securing their place in the last 16 where they will face Spain. Ronaldo's mood turned to joy as the final whistle blew, and he was seen celebrating with teammates. He paid tribute to the late Diogo Jota by wearing a shirt with his number during the full-time celebrations.
Former England striker Theo Walcott admitted he initially doubted the substitution but later agreed it was the right call. "Cristiano Ronaldo had his moment and we had this debate, thinking about taking him off just before he had the goal offside and I was like 'you can't take him off'. I think it was the right decision in the end, it really was, even his response and these are beautiful scenes," Walcott said.
The victory keeps Portugal's World Cup hopes alive as they prepare for a tough clash against Spain in the round of 16.
