Is Age Finally Catching Up to Cristiano Ronaldo?

Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo (AP Photo)

Is age finally catching up with Cristiano Ronaldo? The question is growing louder after the 41-year-old endured another frustrating evening in Portugal's FIFA World Cup 2026 opener, managing just 25 touches and failing to register a single shot on target in a disappointing 1-1 draw against DR Congo. Ronaldo attempted just three shots, had only five touches inside the opposition box and won just one duel over the course of the 90 minutes. It was also the second-fewest touches he has recorded in a World Cup start, highlighting how effectively the Congolese defence neutralised the five-time Ballon d'Or winner. The underwhelming display has intensified concerns over the veteran striker's declining influence on the biggest stages. More worryingly for Portugal, Ronaldo has now gone 10 consecutive matches without scoring in major tournaments — the FIFA World Cup and European Championship combined. Across that barren run, the Portuguese icon has taken 33 shots, with 11 on target, but has failed to find the net even once.

Portugal lose momentum after bright start

Roberto Martinez's men appeared to be cruising after taking the lead in the sixth minute. Pedro Neto's inviting cross was met by Joao Neves, who powered home a header to score his fourth international goal and put Portugal ahead. But after the early breakthrough, Portugal struggled to maintain their intensity. Their possession-heavy approach lacked penetration and DR Congo gradually grew into the contest. The African side deservedly levelled in first-half stoppage time when Yoane Wissa ghosted into space to head home Arthur Masuaku's cross. Portugal briefly thought they had regained the lead after the break through an acrobatic Joao Cancelo finish, only for VAR to rule it out for offside. DR Congo nearly went ahead themselves when Cedric Bakambu struck the post after muscling past Bruno Fernandes. Late substitute Francisco Conceicao injected energy into Portugal's attack and created opportunities for Ronaldo, but the veteran forward was unable to convert.

Ronaldo remains defiant despite frustration

Despite the setback, Ronaldo struck a positive tone after the match. Taking to X, the Portugal captain wrote: "It wasn't the start we wanted, but this is far from over. Head up and focus on the next game." Yet the numbers paint a troubling picture for one of football's greatest goalscorers. After becoming the first player to score in five World Cups, Ronaldo arrived at the 2026 tournament hoping to add another chapter to his extraordinary legacy. Instead, his opening-night performance against DR Congo only fuelled questions about whether time is finally catching up with the man who has spent two decades rewriting football history. With Portugal already under pressure after dropping points, Ronaldo and company will need a swift response if their World Cup dream is to stay on track.