Actions against DR Congo raised several concerns. Despite boasting one of the strongest squads in the world competition, Portugal struggled to create chances and managed only one shot in the competition. The result has increased the pressure ahead of many games expected to be straightforward.
Most naturally focus on Cristiano Ronaldo. The 41-year-old captain remains Portugal’s all-time leading scorer with 147 goals in 229 games, but his recent form in the big leagues has been the talk of the town. Ronaldo has now gone 10 consecutive FIFA World Cup and UEFA European Championship matches without finding the net, with one assist during that time.
His poor showing against DR Congo only added to the controversy. Ronaldo took 25 shots, failed to hit the target with every shot and won only one match. However, Portuguese defender Rúben Dias has dismissed concerns about the former player, insisting that Ronaldo’s criticism is only part of football and not something that affects the club internally.
Uzbekistan arrives as governors but with real faith. After losing to Colombia in the opening round, they know that another defeat will end their hopes of progressing. Veteran player Eldor Shomurodov will spearhead the attacks, while Abbosbek Fayzullaev and Premier League defender Abdukodir Khusanov will provide good looks on both sides of the pitch.
Dias’ fitness is also a big topic of discussion after he missed the opening game due to injury.
With the trials just around the corner and the pressure around their star players, Portugal know that only a win will meet expectations as they look to resume their World Cup campaign against a determined Uzbekistan team.
