Figo stands up for Cristiano Ronaldo and Bernardo Silva amid the storm

Luis Figo, a Betfair ambassador, analyzed Portugal’s difficult situation after their unexpected 1–1 draw against Congo, which has created tension around the national team. The former Barcelona and Real Madrid player addressed the criticism aimed at Cristiano Ronaldo and Roberto Martínez following what was seen in their World Cup opener.

“Obviously, Portugal didn’t start the way we expected. But there are no easy matches, as we’re seeing in the tournament. And of course, when you don’t win, there’s criticism. You have to be prepared. Those of us in football know how this works,” he explained.

“This becomes even more intense when you’re a global reference like Cristiano. He’s different in everything, even at his age playing in a World Cup. That’s Roberto Martínez’s decision. The coach knows what Cristiano Ronaldo can bring to the team with his strengths. It’s up to the coach,” he defended.

“Bernardo Silva will improve”

Bernardo Silva, who has just signed for Real Madrid, was another player singled out against Congo. For Figo, there is no doubt about his quality.

“Bernardo Silva has a lot of experience. He’s important for Portugal. Yes, it’s true he was substituted at halftime in the debut against Congo, but any other player could have been taken off. It was Roberto Martínez’s decision, and he’s the one who takes that responsibility. But I’m sure Bernardo will improve and show his quality with the national team,” he predicted.

Impressed with Messi

Figo also expressed surprise at Leo Messi’s performance in Argentina’s opener against Algeria, where he scored a hat trick in a historic display.

“It was surprising to see Messi score three goals in the first match. And it’s important, because the first game is always key. He was very, very effective. He once again showed his quality,” he said.

Figo highlights the best of the World Cup

The former Portugal international has been impressed by a select group of players so far in the tournament.

“Among the well-known players, I really liked both Mbappé and Olise from France. But among those with less recognition, for example, I really liked Balogun from the United States. He seems very fast and brings goals. Or Bouaddi from Morocco — he had a great match against Brazil despite his youth,” he noted.

“In Germany, I really liked Nmecha. He’s a midfielder who gets forward and proved it by scoring the opening goal against Curaçao. Or Ayari from Sweden, who scored twice against Tunisia. From Switzerland I like Manzambi, or Luis Díaz from Colombia, who has great directness and quality,” Figo concluded.

Recognition for Carlos Queiroz

Finally, he wanted to highlight Carlos Queiroz for his work with Ghana and his long managerial career.

“What caught my attention was Queiroz’s fifth World Cup — and he even won his debut match! He’s one of the most experienced coaches in a World Cup. I’m very fond of him, he’s a good friend. It’s undoubtedly a unique moment for him,” Figo added.

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