Conceicao insists Portugal players 'don't feel obligation' to pass to CR7

Cristiano Ronaldo

Francisco Conceicao has insisted that Portugal players do not feel "obligated" to pass the ball to Cristiano Ronaldo at the 2026 World Cup. Speaking ahead of their crucial clash against Uzbekistan, the Juventus winger insisted the veteran striker is simply part of the collective group aiming to bounce back and succeed on the grandest stage in international football.

'He is here to help'

Conceicao has clarified the team dynamic regarding their legendary captain as Portugal prepare for their second group stage fixture against Uzbekistan. Speaking at a press conference, the Juventus winger addressed the media scrutiny surrounding the squad.

He said: "I think that Cristiano... when it comes to scoring goals, there is no one like him. We don't feel that need or obligation to give him the ball, I pass the ball to whoever is best unmarked. He is here to help, like any other player."

FBL-WC-2026-TRAINING-POR

Demanding collective improvement

The winger continued to praise Ronaldo while urging the rest of the squad to step up their efforts after the opening matchday draw with DR Congo. "He is an example, because of his career, because of the hunger for victory he shows every day, he is super motivated to train as if it were his last. If he has achieved so much and continues with so much desire, ours must be even greater. He is one more person who is here to help; we need everyone for the team to work," Conceicao added. Acknowledging the difficult atmosphere, he stressed the importance of immediate improvement. "Before giving an answer, we have to show ourselves that we are capable of reacting. We want this moment to pass quickly," he noted.

Struggles against DR Congo

This collective mindset follows a highly frustrating 1-1 draw with DR Congo on Wednesday. Ronaldo managed just 25 touches during the full 90 minutes. This lack of involvement sparked heavy criticism, leading Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Joao Neves to cause a storm with an honest post-match assessment. PSG have seen their 21-year-old face backlash after he stated: "We know what Cristiano has done for us, for our national team, and for the world of football. But at this moment, he and we know that he is no different. He is just another person here to help. He is no different from the others. He is here to contribute, just like all of us."

Portugal v Congo DR: Group K - FIFA World Cup 2026

What's next for Portugal?

Portugal must now silence the outside noise and channel this collective mindset into their impending showdown against Uzbekistan. A convincing performance is utterly essential for the national side to move past the DR Congo disappointment and progress deep into the tournament. Roberto Martinez's side are due to face Colombia in their final group game on June 28.