)
HOUSTON — The one-all draw against DR Congo left its mark on the Portuguese squad, but the real gut punch now comes directly from the African team's locker room. While Roberto Martínez's men boarded their bus with heads bowed, the Congolese players made no secret of their satisfaction with the historic result in Houston. And, in the end, they delivered some barbs that promise to ignite the digital ecosystem. The main target? Cristiano Ronaldo, whose starting position and performance are now under intense scrutiny from opposing critics.
The most forceful and audacious statement came from young midfielder Ngal’ayel Mukau, who downplayed any tactical plan specifically designed to neutralize Portugal's number 7. «To be honest, we didn't prepare specifically for Cristiano Ronaldo,» the Congolese player declared, adding: «We know he's not the same as before, he's a bit older now.»
Although Mukau attempted to soften his tone afterward, emphasizing that Ronaldo «remains one of the greatest names in sports» and that he has «a lot of respect for him,» the final blow had already been struck by stating that, given the Portuguese forward's current age, «the same effort isn't needed to mark him.»
However, respect for the living legend has not completely vanished. In the mixed zone, experienced central defender Axel Tuanzebe offered a more measured, yet equally triumphant, perspective on his direct duel with the Portuguese star.
«Cristiano is still hungry, he still wants to play, he still wants to show everyone how good he is,» analyzed the seasoned player, acknowledging the Seleção captain's obsession with individual milestones and proudly embracing DR Congo's defensive effort: «He wants to achieve the goals he desires, to reach that magical number of a thousand. He was disappointed today, but that's my job.»
,fit(112:112)&format=webp)
,fit(112:112)&format=webp)
,fit(112:112)&format=webp)
,fit(112:112)&format=webp)
&format=webp)
&format=webp)