2nd Oldest Field Player in World Cup History: Is Cristiano Ronaldo a Problem for Portugal at the Tournament?
Cristiano Ronaldo has become the second-oldest field player in World Cup history, at 41 years, 4 months, and 12 days old, behind only Roger Milla, who was 42 years, 1 month, and 8 days old when he played for Cameroon in 1994. Ronaldo's milestone was marked by a 1-1 draw between Portugal and DR Congo on Wednesday, with the latter securing their first-ever World Cup point.
Portugal had taken the lead through João Neves' sixth-minute header, but Yoane Wissa equalized for DR Congo just before halftime, scoring their first-ever World Cup goal. Despite having a squad value of €1.01bn, Portugal struggled to assert their dominance, with DR Congo's squad value of €143.9m proving no obstacle.
The Portuguese team, which includes midfielders João Neves and Vitinha, lacked firepower, finishing the match with an xG of 0.64 compared to DR Congo's 0.82. Ronaldo, in particular, had a quiet game, with just 25 touches and three off-target shots. Other key players, including Bruno Fernandes, Pedro Neto, and Bernardo Silva, also underperformed.
However, it may be premature to write off Ronaldo, who could still become the oldest goalscorer in World Cup history. To achieve this, though, Portugal will need to significantly improve their performance.
Portugal had taken the lead through João Neves' sixth-minute header, but Yoane Wissa equalized for DR Congo just before halftime, scoring their first-ever World Cup goal. Despite having a squad value of €1.01bn, Portugal struggled to assert their dominance, with DR Congo's squad value of €143.9m proving no obstacle.
The Portuguese team, which includes midfielders João Neves and Vitinha, lacked firepower, finishing the match with an xG of 0.64 compared to DR Congo's 0.82. Ronaldo, in particular, had a quiet game, with just 25 touches and three off-target shots. Other key players, including Bruno Fernandes, Pedro Neto, and Bernardo Silva, also underperformed.
However, it may be premature to write off Ronaldo, who could still become the oldest goalscorer in World Cup history. To achieve this, though, Portugal will need to significantly improve their performance.
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