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Former West Ham United goalkeeper Shaka Hislop has cautioned Portugal against overly depending on their captain, Cristiano Ronaldo, in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Hislop believes that the Al Nassr forward is no longer the player he once was.
This statement follows Ronaldo, 40, scoring two goals in Portugal’s 2-2 draw against Hungary during their 2026 World Cup qualifying match on Tuesday.
Commenting on the former Real Madrid and Manchester United star, Hislop remarked: “Is Cristiano Ronaldo the striker you can count on?
“For World Cup qualifiers, absolutely. There is no doubt about that.
“However, during the World Cup, particularly in the knockout stages, is he the player you depend on to rescue the team? I’m not entirely convinced he is still that individual.”
Ronaldo will be looking to guide Portugal to victory when they take on Ireland in a World Cup qualifying match this November.
What did Shaka Hislop say about Cristiano Ronaldo's performance? Shaka Hislop expressed concerns about relying on Cristiano Ronaldo as a key player for Portugal in the World Cup, suggesting that he may no longer be the decisive force he once was.
Shaka Hislop expressed concerns about relying on Cristiano Ronaldo as a key player for Portugal in the World Cup, suggesting that he may no longer be the decisive force he once was.
How did Ronaldo perform in the recent match against Hungary? In the match against Hungary, Ronaldo scored two goals, contributing to a 2-2 draw for Portugal in their World Cup qualifier.
In the match against Hungary, Ronaldo scored two goals, contributing to a 2-2 draw for Portugal in their World Cup qualifier.
When will Portugal face Ireland in the qualifiers? Portugal is set to play against Ireland in a World Cup qualifying match in November.
Portugal is set to play against Ireland in a World Cup qualifying match in November.
