Portugal head coach Roberto Martínez has defended Cristiano Ronaldo, describing the veteran forward as a “role model” and a “good example for all of us”, despite criticism of his performance in the team’s slow start to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Ronaldo, who featured in Portugal’s opening Group K match, has faced scrutiny after failing to make a decisive impact in a 1–1 draw against DR Congo. The result left Portugal under pressure ahead of their next group fixture, with questions raised about the 41-year-old captain’s form and influence on the pitch.

Martínez, however, pushed back against the criticism and stressed Ronaldo’s professionalism, discipline, and continued value to the squad both on and off the field.

“I think he’s a player that he focuses so much, he is probably the biggest example of how to focus on the aspects that you can influence — the way he recovers, the way he prepares, the way he trains,” Martínez said.

“He’s a good example for all of us,” he added, highlighting Ronaldo’s long-standing commitment to maintaining elite performance standards across his career.

The Portugal coach also pointed to Ronaldo’s experience at the highest level of international football, noting that the tournament marks his sixth World Cup appearance and a continuation of his long service to the national team.

“It is the sixth time he plays a World Cup, and he is a player who’s been defending and playing for his country for a long time,” Martínez said. “So he really wants to keep on improving, to contribute to the team, and he’s really a role model for our team.”

Despite the strong public backing, Martínez stopped short of confirming whether Ronaldo would start Portugal’s upcoming group match against Uzbekistan, saying he had not yet informed the players of his final selection.

Portugal’s opening draw has intensified scrutiny on their attacking performance, with analysts and fans debating tactical choices and the team’s ability to convert possession into goals. Ronaldo’s role has become a central talking point, particularly given his reduced output in recent major tournaments compared to earlier stages of his career.

Still, Martínez’s remarks underline the coach’s continued trust in Ronaldo’s leadership and professionalism as Portugal seek to recover momentum and progress deeper into the tournament.

The coming matches are expected to be decisive in shaping both Portugal’s World Cup campaign and Ronaldo’s final tournament legacy.