DR Congo’s Mukau: No plan to stop Ronaldo, he’s not the same – 2026 World Cup

DR Congo midfielder Ngal Ayel Mukau admitted that his team had no specific tactical plan to stop Cristiano Ronaldo during their 2026 World Cup opening match.

The Leopards drew 1‑1 with Portugal on Wednesday, with Yohan Wissa’s header equalising after Joao Neves had put Portugal ahead.

Speaking to TNT Sports after the game, Mukau acknowledged that Ronaldo remains one of the greatest players, but is no longer the same as he once was.

He said, “A special plan to contain Cristiano Ronaldo? To be honest, not really. We know that he isn’t the same as before. He’s a bit older now. But still, he’s one of the greatest… much respect to him.”

Mukau’s remarks come as fans and pundits call for Ronaldo to have limited playing time in the national squad.