Portugal defender Ruben Dias he gave his support to the captain Cristiano Ronaldo following the criticism that followed the Seleção’s disappointing 1-1 draw against DR Congo in their first game 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Manchester City centre-back dismissed the backlash surrounding Ronaldo’s performance, insisting the criticism leveled at the veteran forward was nothing more than background noise for the team.
“It’s not a problem for us. It’s insignificant, just a bit of noise. It’s part of the game,” Dias said when asked about the criticism that followed Portugal’s failure to secure victory in Houston.
Dias refuses to focus on Ronaldo
Ronaldo, who became the first player to appear in six World Cups, failed to hit the back of the net as Portugal held off an impressive DR Congo.
However, Dias emphasized that the responsibility for the result belongs to the whole team, not just one individual.
“Above all, the criticism is not directed at just one player. Cristiano is in the spotlight, but I think we are all under scrutiny,” said Dias.
“Other than what I’ve already said, I don’t think there’s anything out of the ordinary going on. It’s always been like this since I’ve been here and I think it will continue to be like this. In the end, it’s just noise. We tune it out and focus on ourselves.”
The Portuguese national team remains united
Dias also dismissed speculation suggesting there are tensions within the Portuguese camp, particularly rumors involving Ronaldo and midfielder Bruno Fernandes.
The 28-year-old insisted the squad remain fully united as they prepare for the remainder of their World Cup campaign.
“It is not a problem for all of us. We are united in the belief that difficulties are positive and that through them we will see what we are made of,” he said.
“We see them as an opportunity to create something positive. My mind doesn’t go in that direction. I don’t pay attention when these things are thrown at us. I don’t think any of us pay attention. It shouldn’t even be a problem.”
Defender sees failure as an opportunity to learn
Despite the unconvincing result against DR Congo, Dias believes the early challenges could ultimately benefit Portugal as they aim for a deep placing in the tournament.
“You never look for perfection in this kind of competition,” added Dias.
“I think the sooner the challenges arise, the better. You only win if the team has the ability to improve from game to game. I don’t expect perfect scenarios. The most important thing is to stay grounded.”
Portugal will look to record their first win of the tournament when they face Uzbekistan in Group K on June 23.
