No Pressure to Pass to Ronaldo, Says Portugal Winger Ahead of World Cup Clash

Portugal winger Francisco Conceicao has asserted that his teammates feel no obligation to pass the ball to Cristiano Ronaldo, despite scrutiny surrounding the veteran superstar's performance in their World Cup opener. Following a lackluster 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of the Congo, critics questioned Ronaldo's mobility and its impact on the team's chances.

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We don’t feel the need to pass him the ball. I pass it to whoever I think is in the best position and unmarked.

Conceicao clarified that passes are made to whoever is in the best attacking position and unmarked, emphasizing that Ronaldo is viewed as "just another member of the squad." He added that the team requires "every individual for the collective to function." Conceicao acknowledged Ronaldo's exemplary career and enduring hunger at 41, calling him "an example of leadership and the goals he scores."

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Cristiano is an example because of his career and the hunger he still possesses at 41 years of age… an example of leadership and the goals he scores.

Despite the perceived lack of pressure to involve Ronaldo, Conceicao acknowledged the team's collective responsibility. "No one takes it harder than we do. We felt firsthand that we didn’t do our job in the best possible way," he said. Portugal faces Uzbekistan next, desperately seeking three points to ignite their campaign. The team is determined to showcase their quality and secure a victory after the disappointing draw, understanding that further pressure and criticism will mount if results do not improve.

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There is no one like him when it comes to scoring goals… He is here to help, just like any other player.