Ronaldo hits back at critics before World Cup: "Didn't you watch the matches?"

Cristiano Ronaldo brushed aside criticism of his form on Friday, hours before Portugal flew to the United States for the 2026 World Cup. The Al-Nassr striker, who failed to score in warm-up victories against Chile (2-1) and Nigeria (2-1), responded sharply to those questioning his level: “Physically, I’m in top shape. Didn’t you watch the matches?…”

In comments relayed by Spanish newspaper AS, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner sought to put the two friendlies into context. “The preparation went well, even if it was exhausting. Logically, we weren’t at our peak for these two matches. The most important thing is the decisive match on June 17. That’s when we’ll see who the real champions are.” Portugal will open their campaign against the Democratic Republic of the Congo on that date.

At 41, Ronaldo has not found the back of the net for the Seleção since October 14, 2025, when he scored a brace against Hungary (2-2) in qualifying for this same World Cup. A silence spanning several months that has fuelled questions, but one he dismisses with unshaken confidence.

On the collective front, he was upbeat. “This is a generation that will bring us a lot of joy. We know this is a special competition and we’re going in with great hope.” He also outlined the strategy for building momentum desired by Roberto Martinez’s group: “The idea is to win the first match, then the second, build confidence and find our rhythm.”

Winning a World Cup remains the major missing piece in Ronaldo’s career. At 41, the American tournament could represent his last chance to achieve it.