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Jun 18, 20261
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Congo player Ngalalel Mokao dismisses Ronaldo's performance, says no tactical plan needed to stop him

Democratic Republic of Congo player Ngalalel Mokao criticized Cristiano Ronaldo's performance after Portugal's 1-1 draw in the 2026 World Cup opener, stating the team did not need a tactical plan to stop him as he is no longer at his peak. Mokao acknowledged Ronaldo's historical greatness but emphasized the Portuguese star's current decline due to age and reduced physical capability.





Quick Facts
Who
Cristiano Ronaldo
What
1-1 draw in World Cup opening match
When
2026 World Cup
Where
World Cup 2026 venue
- 1-1 draw in World Cup opening match
- Ronaldo received sharp criticism for poor performance
- Mokao stated Congo did not plan to stop Ronaldo
- Questions raised about Ronaldo's future in starting lineup
- Cristiano Ronaldo
Portugal drew 1-1 with the Democratic Republic of Congo in the opening match of the 2026 World Cup, a result that sparked widespread criticism of Cristiano Ronaldo's diminished performance. Following the match, Congo player Ngalalel Mokao issued sharp commentary about the Portuguese star, stating that his team had not devised any special tactical plan to neutralize Ronaldo, implying the veteran striker was no longer the dominant force he once was.
Mokao's remarks highlighted concerns about Ronaldo's physical decline and advancing age. The Congo midfielder told media outlets: "We didn't plan to stop him from the start, considering he has aged, and is no longer what he was—this is the nature of life." He elaborated that the team's strategic focus was directed toward other players rather than containing the 39-year-old forward.
Despite his criticism, Mokao expressed respect for Ronaldo's historical legacy, acknowledging him as one of the greatest players in football history. However, he emphasized that the current situation differs from Ronaldo's peak years. The comments reflect growing doubts about Ronaldo's place in Portugal's starting lineup as he continues his career at an advanced age, with his performance in the tournament opener failing to silence questions about his future role in international football.
Why This Matters
This event signals that top-level defenders no longer view Cristiano Ronaldo as a game-changing threat, which could accelerate Portugal's tactical shift away from relying on aging stars. For fans, it provides concrete evidence that Ronaldo's international career may be nearing its end, potentially impacting future lineup decisions and team strategy in upcoming tournaments.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 18, 2026
WirePortugal vs Democratic Republic of Congo match in 2026 World Cup, ending 1-1
Jun 18, 2026
WireNgalalel Mokao gives interview to media criticizing Ronaldo's performance