Portugal blasts World Cup backlash as ‘noise’ as Dias defends under-fire Ronaldo

By Adegboyega Adeleye
Portugal have insisted they are shutting out the growing criticism surrounding the team and captain Cristiano Ronaldo after their disappointing start to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
According to Reuters, defender Ruben Dias said the squad was treating the backlash following their 1-1 draw against Democratic Republic of Congo as “noise” as they prepare for their second Group K match against Uzbekistan.
The European giants were held by DR Congo in their opening game despite dominating possession and completing 740 passes, with the result triggering questions about their attacking display and Ronaldo’s influence.
Ronaldo, competing at a record sixth World Cup, came ...