Cristiano Ronaldo criticism is just noise: Ruben Dias after Thierry Henry remarks

FIFA World Cup 2026: Ruben Dias defended Cristiano Ronaldo after Portugal's draw with DR Congo brought fresh criticism. The Portugal defender said the squad is ignoring outside noise and focusing on Uzbekistan.

In Short

• Portugal drew 1-1 with DR Congo despite controlling possession and passes
• The result extended Ronaldo's major tournament goal drought to ten matches
• Thierry Henry questioned whether Ronaldo's presence is helping Portugal or not

Portugal defender Ruben Dias has leapt to Cristiano Ronaldo's defence after the veteran forward came under fresh scrutiny following Portugal's underwhelming World Cup opener. Dias dismissed the criticism surrounding his captain as "noise", insisting the squad remains focused on its campaign rather than outside opinions.

Portugal were held to a disappointing 1-1 draw by DR Congo in their opening Group K fixture despite dominating possession and completing more than 700 passes. Speaking ahead of Portugal's second World Cup match against Uzbekistan, Dias said criticism of Ronaldo was nothing new and something the team had learned to block out over the years.

"Beyond what I've already said, I don't think anything out of the ordinary is happening. It's always been like this since I've been here, and I think it will continue to be," Dias said.

"In the end, it's just noise. We shut it out and focus on ourselves."

"For all of us, it's not an issue. We're united in the belief that difficulties are positive and that it's through them we'll see what we're made of. We see them as an opportunity to create something positive," he added.

"My mind doesn't go in that direction. I don't pay attention when those things are thrown at us. I don't think any of us do. It shouldn't even be an issue."

Portugal's frustrating start to the tournament extended Ronaldo's goal drought in major international tournaments to 10 matches, stretching back to the 2022 World Cup. The 41-year-old endured another quiet evening against DR Congo and was subsequently criticised by former France striker Thierry Henry, who questioned whether Portugal's focus on Ronaldo's personal milestones was helping the team.

DIAS DISMISSES RONALDO SPECULATION

The criticism quickly reignited debate over Ronaldo's role in the national side, particularly after Lionel Messi's hat-trick for Argentina vs Algeria earlier the same day intensified comparisons between football's two biggest icons.

Dias, however, made it clear that neither Ronaldo nor the rest of the squad were interested in engaging with the noise surrounding the team. The Manchester City defender also brushed aside speculation over any divisions within the dressing room, including recurring social media theories surrounding Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes.

For Portugal's senior players, the focus remains firmly on improving performances rather than responding to criticism from pundits or supporters.

PORTUGAL SEEK RESPONSE VS UZBEKISTAN

Despite dropping points in their opening match, Portugal remain well placed to qualify from Group K and know victory against Uzbekistan would significantly improve their position heading into the final round of fixtures.

Dias, who recently returned from injury, expects another difficult test and warned that Portugal must show greater attacking sharpness after struggling to break down DR Congo's disciplined defensive setup.

"You never look for perfection in this kind of competition. I think the sooner challenges appear, the better. You only win if the team has the ability to keep improving game after game," Dias said.

"I don't expect perfect scenarios. The most important thing is to stay grounded."

For Portugal, that may be the key lesson from an underwhelming opening night. While Ronaldo continues to dominate headlines, Martinez's side know their World Cup ambitions will ultimately be shaped by what they do on the pitch rather than the criticism that follows them off it.

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