Portugal's Conceição Clarifies: No Obligation to Pass to Ronaldo at World Cup

Francisco Conceição, Portugal's 23-year-old winger, stated on Sunday that his teammates feel no pressure or obligation to pass the ball to Cristiano Ronaldo during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Speaking at a news conference before training in Palm Beach, Florida, Conceição emphasized that passing decisions are made instinctively in real-time based on positioning rather than individual obligation. "We don't have any obligation or need to pass the ball to him," Conceição said. "I pass it to whoever I think is in the best position and unmarked."

Conceição's comments came in the wake of criticism directed at Portugal's opening match performance, a 1-1 draw with the Democratic Republic of the Congo in which the 41-year-old Ronaldo struggled to make an impact. The veteran forward recorded just 25 touches—his fewest in a full match at a major tournament for Portugal—and failed to register goals or assists. Critics, including former France striker Thierry Henry, questioned Ronaldo's effectiveness and accused him of being selfish. Coach Roberto Martínez also faced scrutiny for keeping Ronaldo on the pitch throughout the match.

Despite the criticism, Conceição stressed Ronaldo's value to the squad as both a leader and goalscorer. "Cristiano is an example because of his career, his hunger at 41 years of age, and his leadership," Conceição said. "There is no one like him when it comes to scoring goals. He is here to help, just like any other player." The Juventus player, who made his World Cup debut in the Congo DR match 24 years after his father Sérgio played in the 2002 World Cup, emphasized that the squad requires "every individual for the collective to function."

Portugal faces mounting pressure ahead of its second Group K match against Uzbekistan on Tuesday in Houston. The team desperately needs three points to salvage its campaign after the disappointing opening draw. Conceição acknowledged the squad's frustration with their own performance. "No one takes it harder than we do," he said. "If things don't go well, there will be more pressure and more criticism. We want to show our quality and win the next match." The midfielder also noted that while pressure is constant for players at top clubs, the team is determined to respond with improved performance.