League: EPL Sport: Soccer Country: England Category: Scores & Results

Diogo Dalot defends Cristiano Ronaldo amid national team criticism

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 20, 2026, 11:10 PM

Last updated Jun 20, 2026

Diogo Dalot defends Cristiano Ronaldo amid national team criticism

Summary

Diogo Dalot, defender for Manchester United, has publicly defended Cristiano Ronaldo following harsh criticism of the Portugal captain's performance in the World Cup opener against DR Congo. The match ended in a 1-1 draw, with Ronaldo missing several scoring opportunities. This has led to calls for his removal from the national team. Dalot emphasized unity within the squad and indicated that the players had prepared for the criticism they would face, reinforcing Ronaldo's experience and leadership as vital to their campaign. Portugal's next match is against Uzbekistan on Tuesday.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Portugal drew 1-1 with DR Congo in their World Cup opener.
•Cristiano Ronaldo missed key scoring chances during the match.
•Calls for Ronaldo's removal have intensified among fans and media.
•Dalot stated the team is focused and prepared for criticism.
•Portugal faces Uzbekistan next in Group K on Tuesday.

Latest Updates

11:10 PMYahoo Sports — Diogo Dalot launches passionate Cristiano Ronaldo defence amid fierce backlash

What they're saying

"
Manchester United defender Diogo Dalot has rallied to Cristiano Ronaldo’s defence amid growing calls for the Portugal captain to be dropped from the national side.Civil warRonaldo has come under hea...
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Manchester United Paris Saint-Germain EPL Soccer