Cristiano Ronaldo Urged to ‘Step Down' After Selfish Performance at World Cup

Since Portugal‘s stunning 1-1 draw with DR Congo, Cristiano Ronaldo has come under fire for what many have determined as selfish play from the legendary striker.

One soccer analyst went as far as to say that Ronaldo should volunteer himself to remain on the bench for the team’s future matchups. Former World Cup competitor Kevin-Prince Boateng did not mince words in his criticism of the Portuguese star.

“Ronaldo, if he would be a real team player, he would step down and let the young players flow,” said Boateng on SBS Sport. “Because Portugal is a better side without him.”

That’s a bold statement, given Ronaldo is one of the best players to ever play in the World Cup, scoring eight goals during the tournament throughout his career. However, it’s tough to disagree with the former Ghanaian striker’s analysis, as Ronaldo appeared old and slow while taking opportunities away from his teammates during a disappointing result against DR Congo.

With a critical tilt against Uzbekistan, something must change for Portugal or they could be staring at elimination before getting through the group stage. Portugal and DR Congo each sit behind Group K leader, Colombia, which defeated Uzbekistan 3-1 on Wednesday.

More news: Stars Shining Brightly at 2026 World Cup, Except Cristiano Ronaldo

“There’s so much pressure when he’s in the middle, because they all want to play the ball to him,” added Boateng. “I get that. I understand that. I’ve played with great players like that. You always want to focus and let him score.”

Ronaldo was the first player to score at five different World Cup tournaments and is in pursuit of a goal to extend that streak. He joined an elite list this year by participating in his sixth different World Cup, competing at each tournament since 2006.

However, despite his lofty status in the world of international soccer, Boateng says that, for Portugal to reach its full potential, they must sideline the best player in the country’s history. That would be a significant hit to Ronaldo’s ego, which he is unlikely to take lying down.

“I know he’s after records,” added the soccer analyst. “He broke all of them. We were huge fans of him. But if Portugal wants to have a chance to go far, I believe Ronaldo should step down, let the others play and come in for the last 15-20 minutes to get that great result out of his game.”

Portugal will take on Uzbekistan on Tuesday at 1 p.m. Expect to see Ronaldo on the pitch, despite what his detractors have said in the wake of his team’s poor effort earlier this week.

2026 NEWSWEEK DIGITAL LLC.

This story was originally published June 18, 2026 at 3:40 PM.