Diogo Dalot Defends Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo After DR Congo Stalemate at 2026 FIFA World Cup

Portugal right-back Diogo Dalot has spoken out in defence of his country’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, suggesting that a section of the public is rooting against the Seleção after they were held to a 1-1 draw by the Democratic Republic of Congo in their Group K opener.

Addressing the media at a press conference on Saturday, Dalot acknowledged the wave of scrutiny directed at the squad but was unequivocal in his response. “The criticism will always be there, but our message is that while millions of people want Portugal to win, there are also those who don’t,” he said.

The Manchester United defender stopped short of naming any specific individuals when pressed, but maintained his position firmly. “I can’t name one or two individuals, but there are people who don’t want Portugal to succeed. My job is to go out there, play, and show that this group is strong and united, regardless of the result. The team is determined to improve,” Dalot continued.

While conceding that criticism is an inherent feature of top-level football, Dalot drew a distinction between negativity and feedback that can actually benefit the team. “I’ve been in football long enough to know that criticism is part of the game, and you can’t escape it. But there is also constructive criticism. Our message is clear: we are a cohesive and strong group, and we’re ready to do whatever it takes to win,” he added.

Dalot also moved to defend captain Cristiano Ronaldo, who drew criticism for his performance in Portugal’s opening fixture. Ronaldo, 41, is participating in his sixth FIFA World Cup — a record for a European outfield player — and remains central to Portugal’s attacking setup despite the ongoing scrutiny of his form. “Everyone knows Cristiano’s ability to handle criticism. Given what people have been saying, it’s just part of his world. Pressure is inherent in a competition at this level. Our opinion of him hasn’t changed; he will always be ready to help and represent his country,” Dalot explained.

The result against DR Congo, who were making their World Cup debut at the 2026 edition co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, left Portugal in a precarious position in Group K. A draw in an opening match against a debutant nation heightened pressure on a squad widely regarded as one of Europe’s stronger sides entering the tournament.

Adding to the internal noise, Portugal midfielder João Neves sparked controversy after the DR Congo match with comments suggesting Ronaldo is “just another player” within the squad dynamic — remarks that drew widespread reaction and further fuelled the media cycle surrounding the team.

Portugal now face Uzbekistan on Tuesday in what has effectively become a must-win fixture if they are to consolidate their position in the group and restore confidence ahead of the knockout stages. A positive result would go a considerable way toward quieting the external debate and re-establishing the Seleção as credible contenders in the competition.