João Neves Calls Ronaldo 'Just Another Player', Fans Furious After Portugal’s World Cup Draw
Portugal midfielder João Neves stunned fans with his claim that Cristiano Ronaldo is “just another player” after Portugal’s 1-1 draw with DR Congo in their 2026 World Cup opener. Neves, who scored his country’s only goal, insisted the draw would unite the squad rather than weaken it. Ronaldo supporters flooded social media, accusing the 21-year-old of disrespecting a national icon in what is likely Ronaldo’s final World Cup. While some praise Neves for promoting team unity, others condemn his choice of words as ungrateful. Portugal now turns its attention to Uzbekistan and Colombia in the group stage. Coach Roberto Martínez faces the challenge of balancing respect for Ronaldo’s legacy with building a new generation.
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