Owen is confident that Ronaldo will respond to the critics at the 2026 World Cup.

Cristiano Ronaldo is once again facing fierce criticism following Portugal’s surprising draw against the DR Congo in the 2026 World Cup, but Michael Owen, a legend of English football, did not hesitate to come to the defense of the Portuguese captain. While Lionel Messi shone with a hat-trick in Argentina’s victory over Algeria, Ronaldo found himself sidelined and questioned for his subdued performance, reigniting the eternal debate over who is truly the greatest of the modern era.

The match held in the United States ended in a frustrating 1-1 draw, a result that left the National Team under pressure and increased scrutiny on Ronaldo’s performance, now at 41 years old. The Portuguese star, starting in attack, struggled to break through the defensive wall of the DR Congo, fueling the narrative that he may no longer be decisive on the big stage. In contrast, Lionel Messi stole the spotlight and newspaper headlines by scoring three goals the day before, further heightening the expectations surrounding Ronaldo’s performance.

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The importance of this moment cannot be underestimated. Portugal entered this World Cup as one of the favorite teams, but the inability to secure three points against a theoretically accessible opponent complicates the group’s calculations and raises doubts about the team’s ability to advance to the decisive stages. For Ronaldo, this represents yet another opportunity to respond to critics and prove that, even in the final stretch of his career, he remains one of the biggest names in world football. His legacy is, more than ever, at stake.

Michael Owen, former forward for Liverpool and the England national team, used his column in the Daily Mail to calm tensions and reinforce confidence in Ronaldo: “It didn’t help Cristiano Ronaldo that Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick the night before Portugal’s game, but I don’t accept the criticism being directed at him,” Owen wrote, emphasizing that the profile of the Portuguese captain has never been one of constant involvement in the game: “Hasn’t he always played like this, to a certain extent? He has never been a player, especially in recent years, who gets heavily involved in the game. He will be present in the big moments, however. If he doesn’t score, it’s too easy to blame Ronaldo. At 41, he will always be questioned.” Owen believes that the Portuguese star has proven himself and will show up when it matters most.

These words are a true balm at a time when the pressure on Ronaldo is reaching rarely seen levels. The player himself, known for his mental resilience, will now have to find the strength to turn criticism into extra motivation. Ronaldo’s leadership in the locker room and his ability to decide games continue to be vital assets for a national team that urgently needs a strong response to keep the World Cup dream alive.

The next game for Portugal thus takes on the contours of a pre-final. Fernando Santos, the coach, will need to readjust the team and find solutions to free Ronaldo and enhance the Portuguese attack. The pressing question is: will Ronaldo be able to silence the critics and become the hero the country needs once again? If there is one thing the Madeiran’s career has taught us, it is that one should never doubt his ability to surprise when least expected. A fitting response could not only revive Portugal in the tournament but also further cement the legendary status of the Portuguese captain in the global football landscape.

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