Portugal ahead Cristiano Ronaldo didn’t make the beginning lineup in a FIFA World Cup Round of 16 match in opposition to Switzerland on the Lusail Stadium. Goncalo Ramos will take his place within the enjoying XI.
Ronaldo isn’t beginning a sport for his nationwide facet at a significant match for the primary time for the reason that European Championships in 2008. He has performed 31 matches for Portugal since. Interestingly, that Euro fixture was in opposition to the Swiss as nicely. Selecao das Quinas had ended up shedding the match with a full-time scoreline of 2-0.
Ronaldo – enjoying the World Cup for the primary time as a free agent in Qatar 2022 within the aftermath of an explosive interview with Piers Morgan criticising former membership Manchester United – final missed the beginning lineup within the quadrennial showpiece in 2006, in a bunch stage match in opposition to Mexico.
There had been already doubts whether or not Ronaldo will line up within the knockout fixture after a reported disagreement with the coach Fernando Santos.
In the 1-2 defeat to South Korea final week, Ronaldo was supposedly sad with Santos’ choice to take him off the pitch within the second half. The Portuguese media have proven photos that recommend he used vulgar language in response to Santos’ choice.
Santos added gas to the hearth, saying he was unimpressed with Ronaldo’s behaviour. “I didn’t like it at all. I didn’t like it at all. Then these matters are resolved in-house.”
“I only decide who is going to be captain when I reach the stadium. I still don’t know what the lineup will be. That’s what I’ve always done and that’s what I’m always going to do and it’s going to be the same tomorrow,” the 68-year-old added, when requested in regards to the squad forward of Wednesday’s sport.
