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World Cup news: Thierry Henry calls out Cristiano Ronaldo’s selfish striker play
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- World Cup news: Thierry Henry calls out Cristiano Ronaldo’s selfish striker play
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Portugal 's opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup was supposed to be a statement of intent. Instead, it became the catalyst for one of the tournament's earliest tactical debates. Following Portugal's disappointing 1-1 draw against DR Congo in Houston, legendary French striker Thierry Henry offered a pointed assessment of Cristiano Ronaldo 's role. Sure, Ronaldo remains one of the sport's most iconic figures. However, Henry argued that the veteran forward's approach as a center-forward is creating structural issues for Portugal. His comments raise fresh questions about whether Portugal's attack can reach its full potential if Ronaldo continues to operate this way.
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Portugal's World Cup campaign began with an unexpected roadblock at NRG Stadium as DR Congo earned a historic 1-1 draw in Group K. The favorites struck early when João Neves nodded home a precise Pedro Neto cross in the sixth minute. However, Portugal failed to build on that momentum. They gradually allowed DR Congo back into the contest. The equalizer arrived in first-half stoppage time when Yoane Wissa powered in a header from Arthur Masuaku 's delivery. That secured DR Congo's first-ever World Cup goal and point. Despite second-half adjustments, Portugal could not find a winner against a disciplined defensive block.
Speaking during his post-match analysis, Henry identified Ronaldo's positioning as a key issue .
"He's playing as a 9, but he's never been a 9 and he's not acting as a 9," Henry said.
The former Arsenal and France star argued that Ronaldo's tendency to seek individual space rather than occupy defenders and create opportunities for teammates deprived Portugal of a true focal point. With Ronaldo registering just 25 touches and no shots on target, Henry believes Portugal must find greater balance before facing Uzbekistan in their next World Cup test.
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