BREAKING: “Treat him like there were no consequences for poor performance” —Canadian broadcaster slams Ronaldo

According to a report by GOAL on Saturday June 20, 2026, a heated debate has erupted over Portugal’s performances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after Canadian broadcaster Sid Seixeiro launched a scathing criticism of Cristiano Ronaldo and head coach Roberto Martínez following their draw against DR Congo.

Speaking on The Sid Seixeiro Show, the broadcaster delivered an emotional verdict on Portugal’s team selection and tactical approach, arguing that the current setup is harming the squad’s overall balance.

Seixeiro questioned Martínez’s continued trust in Ronaldo despite what he described as ineffective performances, while also pointing to inconsistencies in substitution decisions during the match.

“Ronaldo was picked for the team. Do I have a problem with Cristiano Ronaldo being started in these World Cup games? I don’t because if you have actually looked at the Portugal roster, there’s not a Thierry Henry on there,” he said.

However, he insisted that Portugal’s issues lie in how the team is being managed around the veteran forward, particularly when it comes to accountability and in-game adjustments.

“To treat him like there were no consequences for poor performances is sending a hell of a message to the rest of the group,” Seixeiro added.

The broadcaster also criticized Martínez for substituting other high-performing players while leaving Ronaldo on the pitch, referencing midfield and defensive changes that he believed disrupted the team’s rhythm.

Seixeiro further argued that Portugal’s current structure reflects a wider internal issue, claiming that the squad appears divided between established senior figures and a younger generation pushing for more influence in the team.

He went on to suggest that Portugal would function more effectively without continued reliance on Ronaldo, claiming that the team’s attacking movement has been restricted due to his style of play in the current system.

“Because Ronaldo’s not making runs like there’s nowhere to put the ball for him because he is slow,” Seixeiro stated, concluding with a blunt call for change within the squad structure.