Luis Figo defended Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal coach Roberto Martínez after Portugal opened the World Cup with a 1-1 draw against Congo.
Figo, speaking as a Betfair ambassador, said Portugal did not start as expected but added that “there are no easy matches” in the tournament.
The former Portugal international said criticism increases when a player has Ronaldo’s global profile. He said Martínez must decide how to use Ronaldo’s strengths in the team.
Figo also backed Bernardo Silva after the midfielder was substituted at halftime against Congo. He said Silva has experience, remains important for Portugal and will improve with the national team.
The former Barcelona and Real Madrid player said Martínez took responsibility for the halftime change. He added that any other player could also have been substituted.
Figo also praised Lionel Messi after Argentina’s opener against Algeria. He said Messi was “very effective” after scoring a hat trick in the first match.
Figo named Kylian Mbappé, Michael Olise, Folarin Balogun, Bouaddi, Nmecha, Ayari, Manzambi and Luis Díaz among players who impressed him early in the World Cup.
Read: Portugal Draw Congo 1-1 as Ronaldo Sets Age Record
He also highlighted Carlos Queiroz after Ghana won their opening match. Figo said Queiroz’s fifth World Cup as a coach marked a unique moment in his career.
