Portugal confronts Uzbekistan with Ronaldo under microscope after opening World Cup draw

Pressure on Portugal

Portugal arrived at NRG Stadium for their second World Cup fixture knowing anything less than victory over debutants Uzbekistan would jeopardise their knockout-round hopes. The 2016 European champions were held 1-1 by DR Congo in the opener, a match in which they produced seven shots and only one on target, João Neves' sixth-minute header. Head coach Roberto Martínez admitted his team lost discipline and structure after the opening 20 minutes, but said the dressing room has responded with greater unity.

“We are strong and focused. And our group is even more united than before. It is a process. Tension is not part of our team.”

Martínez refused to confirm whether Ronaldo, who failed to score and had only 25 touches against Congo, would start against Uzbekistan. Ruben Dias, who missed the opener, is expected to return in central defence while Tomás Araújo is a doubt.

Ronaldo faces the critics

Television pundits and social media users criticised Ronaldo after he missed several good scoring chances in the second half of the Congo game. Some questioned why Martínez did not substitute him. Martínez defended the forward, calling the criticism “unfair, it's unjust,” and insisted Ronaldo remains the best option to open space in the final third.

“I am here to help Portugal win, whether with goals, assists or teamwork. Critics are part of football, but on the field, I only think about winning.”

Ronaldo will try again to become the first man to score in six World Cups. He currently shares the record with Lionel Messi, who has added five goals already at this tournament to reach a record 18 across five finals.

Cannavaro urges Uzbek fight

Uzbekistan, making their first World Cup appearance, lost 3-1 to Colombia in their opening match. Coach Fabio Cannavaro, who captained Italy to the 2006 title, said his players must show more battling spirit against Portugal but warned against over-focusing on Ronaldo.

“We have nothing to lose. Portugal like to control the game, they will start fast. We will be prepared for that. We cannot focus only on Cristiano. He is one of the greatest ever, but Portugal has more good players.”

Cannavaro added that while his role now is different from his playing days, the thrill of the World Cup remains. He drew on the 2006 experience to emphasise team play, noting that Messi and Maradona could win games alone but his side must function collectively.

Group K stakes

Colombia tops Group K with three points after beating Uzbekistan, while Portugal and DR Congo sit on one point each. Martínez acknowledged that a win is essential to keep pace with the South Americans. Uzbekistan, still without a point, will be all but eliminated with a defeat. The match kicks off at 1 p.m. EDT (18:00 BST) in Houston, with Moroccan referee Jalal Jayed in charge.