Ronaldo’s Sisters React After Portugal’s Stumbling World Cup Start
Following Portugal’s frustrating start to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the family of captain Cristiano Ronaldo has publicly rallied behind the team while also expressing disappointment over the players’ performance after the 1-1 draw against DR Congo.
Portugal were held by the African side in their Group K opener despite taking an early lead through João Neves, before Yoane Wissa equalized to secure a historic point for DR Congo. The result left Roberto Martínez’s side under pressure ahead of their upcoming matches.
Ronaldo’s eldest sister, Elma Aveiro, voiced her support for the Seleção and urged patience despite the setback.
“I know beginnings are always tough, but the end will be good. After all, it’s you who are fighting on the field. It’s always easy to talk from the sidelines. And having victory snatched away like this really hurts,” she wrote.
Meanwhile, Ronaldo’s sister Katia Aveiro delivered a more critical assessment of the Portuguese performance, questioning the team’s display in both attack and defense.
“It’s baffling, they seem to have forgotten how to pass, how to tackle, how to launch counter-attacks. The entire team’s offensive and defensive rhythm was backtracking from midfield. This FIFA World Cup is too strange, too strange. But it’s okay, a bad start will lead to a perfect ending. We will fight to the end,” she said.
The draw marked a disappointing opening for Portugal, who dominated possession but failed to capitalize on their chances. DR Congo, returning to the World Cup after a 52-year absence, celebrated a memorable result and their first-ever point at the tournament.
Despite the criticism surrounding the performance, Ronaldo later struck an optimistic tone, insisting Portugal’s World Cup campaign is “far from over” as they prepare for crucial group-stage encounters against Uzbekistan and Colombia.
