Joao Neves harassed online after downplaying Ronaldo's role against Congo

PSG midfielder Joao Neves has become the target of thousands of hateful messages on social media following comments he made after Portugal’s 1-1 draw with Congo on Wednesday in their World Cup opener.

Author of Portugal’s only goal, scored early in the match, Neves had answered cautiously when asked about Cristiano Ronaldo, whom some observers felt was ineffective. “We know what Cristiano has done for us, but right now, he’s like us. He’s just another player here to help us. He’s like everyone else,” he said in the mixed zone. These measured words were enough to trigger a storm among the Portuguese captain’s supporters.

Bruno Fernandes is also being targeted. The Manchester United midfielder reportedly reacted in a way deemed disrespectful on the pitch when Ronaldo took the ball from him in the box, and a simple heart emoji posted under one of Neves’ posts has earned him a flood of negative comments in turn.

Portugal had made a good start to the match before being caught just before halftime. Roberto Martinez’s side never appeared capable of forcing a decision afterward, leaving a mixed impression after this opening group match.

Cristiano Ronaldo, meanwhile, chose to look ahead. “It wasn’t the start we wanted, but everything is far from over. Head high and focus on the next match,” he wrote on Instagram, referring to the Seleção’s next fixture against Uzbekistan.