Chris Sutton Criticizes Portugal Coach and Martinez Over Ronaldo at 2026 World Cup

Former England striker Chris Sutton has questioned Cristiano Ronaldo’s role in the Portugal squad.

Sutton described Portugal’s performance in their 1‑1 draw with debutant Congo DR as “flat” and “painful.”

Many football observers had seen Portugal as one of the favorites to win the tournament, yet Roberto Martínez’s side struggled in their opening match against the underdog DR Congo.

Portugal appeared set for an easy win after Joao Neves headed in a goal seven minutes in.

However, the hosts failed to build on the advantage, and DR Congo equalised when Newcastle United forward Yoane Wissa headed in their first World Cup goal.

The iconic striker Ronaldo missed the chance to become the first player ever to score in six different tournaments.

Speaking on talkSPORT, Sutton, a former Chelsea star, expressed disappointment: “Portugal were painful. It was a really insipid, flat performance.”

“The story is all about DR Congo and how they grew into the game. Second half, it was a pretty even game but what a point for DR Congo.”

“Roberto Martínez, I don’t understand some of his management. Cristiano Ronaldo was on the periphery and the game passed him by.”

“Martínez has to be brave enough to be the manager. He is not the manager of the Portugal team and that is their issue.”