ALL GONE RON

Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo’s two second-half misses against the Democratic Republic of Congo and a mostly anonymous display did little to dissuade those who feel he is past his prime and not the man to lead his country to World ‌Cup success.

Portugal were held to a 1-1 draw in Group K by a Congolese side appearing at their first global finals in 52 years.

Ronaldo, 41, is at his sixth World Cup, a record he jointly holds with Argentina’s Lionel Messi, and had two chances to win the game, both of which he put wide from close range.

The frustration from his captain Bruno Fernandes, who had lined up behind Ronaldo in the first of the opportunities, was evident and prolonged. Ronaldo had the fewest touches (25) of any Portugal player who featured for more than 45 minutes.

Portugal coach Roberto Martinez was not in the mood to speak specifically about Ronaldo’s performance in the post-match press conference, suggesting the forward was not given the support he needed.

“We have to utilise all the players on the pitch. The lead attacker (Ronaldo) needs to be close to the six-yard box and we need to get the ball (to him).”

MAKES NO SENSE TO SUBSTITUTE RONALDO, SAYS MARTINEZ

Asked if he thought ‌about substituting Ronaldo, Martinez said the forward’s experience was key.

“It makes no sense to get the best goalscorer in world football out in a game that you need goals,” he said.

“For us in moments like this, the experience of Cristiano in the box is important. The way that he attracts defenders is important, the way that we can use the space is important.

“And every player has a responsibility or a piece of quality on the pitch. And clearly when you look for goals, you need to have Cristiano.”

The debate over whether Ronaldo should be used as a starter, off the bench or not at all is not a new one.

His incredible return of 143 goals in 229 caps – both of which are records in men’s international football – puts him among football’s greats.

But Portugal are not lacking talent in attacking areas. They are next in action against Uzbekistan in Houston on Tuesday, before they face Colombia in a final Group K clash in Miami on June 27.

Meanwhile, The Democratic Republic of Congo were full value for the draw and might even have won the game in an excellent display against the fancied Portuguese.

Here are the player ratings from the clash in Houston:

Lionel Mpasi-Nzau (6): Mpasi-Nzau had little to do in the end as Portugal’s only shot on target was their goal. His defence did an excellent job in front of him.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka (7): The right-back was superb as he nullified the Portuguese left flank. He had seven out of seven accurate passes in the final third.

Chancel Mbemba (7): The centre-back was a rock for his side with five clearances and four recoveries. He won both his ground duels.

Axel Tuanzebe (6): Was put under extreme pressure by the Portuguese defenders and came through it mostly unscathed, though he only won one of his four duels.

Steve Kapuadi (7): Made three key clearances and won both his duels. A solid showing at the back. Arthur Masuaku (7): Provided the assist for the goal and created several other opportunities for the Congolese. A strong showing from the left-back.

Ngalayel Mukau (7): Had seven out of eight accurate passes in the final third and worked his socks off in midfield. Also had three progressive carries.

Samuel Moutoussamy (6): The midfielder was a workhorse but was at times sloppy in possession. Tried a few shots that were wayward.

Edo Kayembe (6): Also worked hard and had four progressive carries, but gave away possession on several occasions.

Yoane Wissa (7): Scored the goal with a fine header and had several other breaks, looked the most lively of the Congolese attackers.

Cedric Bakambu (6): Struck the post in the second half and had some other opportunities, but took the wrong option on several occasions.

Ngalayel Mukau (6): Came on in the 57th minute and was solid enough in a team that was protecting what it had.

Charles Pickel (6): Played the final 16 minutes after coming on Edo Kayembe.

Joris Kayembe (6): Also played the final 16 minutes as he came on for Masuaku.

Substitutes Gedeon Kalulu and Simon Banza were not on long enough for a rating. – Reuters