CRISTIANO RONALDO NAMED IN MOST DISAPPOINTING XI AFTER 2026 WORLD CUP

Cristiano Ronaldo has been included in a "Most Disappointing XI" following Portugal's elimination from the 2026 World Cup. Ronaldo, 41, was the oldest footballer at the tournament apart from Scotland goalkeeper Craig Gordon, who was 43. He featured in five matches across the competition, scoring two goals in Portugal's three group-stage fixtures against Colombia, DR Congo and Uzbekistan. Ronaldo started Portugal's Round of 32 match against Croatia, scored from the penalty spot and was substituted in the 81st minute as his team won 2-1.

Portugal progressed to the knockout stage but lost 1-0 to Spain in their final match. Ronaldo played the full 90 minutes in that defeat, which came from a Mikel Merino goal in stoppage time. The Spanish side went on to win the tournament. In earlier group matches, Ronaldo played all 270 minutes available to him as Portugal advanced to the Round of 32 without issue.

A Portuguese marketing expert has suggested that Ronaldo holds higher market value than his teammates in the national squad. The expert's assessment came in response to discussion about Ronaldo's future with the Portugal national team following the World Cup elimination.