Portugal weighs Ronaldo's role ahead of World Cup amid strong statistics
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 10, 2026, 4:30 PM
Last updated Jun 10, 2026
Portugal continues to evaluate Cristiano Ronaldo's impact as they prepare for the World Cup. Under coach Roberto Martinez, the team boasts a solid record with Ronaldo starting, winning 21 matches, while they have also performed well without him, achieving six wins and two draws. Despite Ronaldo's remarkable individual statistics of 25 goals and four assists in 31 games, his age and Portugal's attacking depth raise questions about his starting role. The team's two biggest victories occurred without him in the lineup, prompting discussions about strategy and optimal utilization as they aim for success in what may be Ronaldo's final tournament. Smartly managing his presence could be key for Portugal's advancement.
- •Portugal has won 21, drawn five, and lost four with Ronaldo starting.
- •Without Ronaldo, they have won six, drawn two, and lost one.
- •Ronaldo's scoring run includes 25 goals under Martinez.
- •Portugal's recent victories include a 9-0 win against Luxembourg.
- •Strategic use of Ronaldo is critical as the tournament progresses.
- 4:30 PMYahoo Sports — Portugal’s numbers without Cristiano Ronaldo brings up uncomfortable World Cup question
"The Cristiano Ronaldo debate is unavoidable for Portugal because it now sits between two truths that can both be right at the same time. Ronaldo is still a legend, still a huge goal threat and still coming off a remarkable scoring run for his country under Roberto Martinez.
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