Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has broken his silence after being named on the bench for Portugal's World Cup last-16 clash with Switzerland. Fernando Santos, the Portugal manager, dropped Ronaldo for their first knockout game after explaining his displeasure at Ronaldo's actions in the final group stage match against South Korea.
Santos gave his thoughts ahead of Portugal's match with Switzerland on what happened in the closing moments of Portugal's match with South Korea where Ronaldo was heavily involved. He said: “I’d heard him (Ronaldo) in discussion with Korea’s players. But I didn’t like the other images when I saw them. Not at all. I really didn’t like them. Now, everything has finished. That issue is finished. Full stop."
As a result of what happened against South Korea, Ronaldo was replaced in the starting line up by Benfica striker Goncalo Ramos, and Santos was ultimately justified in his decision, with Ramos netting a superb hat-trick as Portugal fired six past the Swiss with Manuel Akanji's goal merely a consolation.
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Despite the outcome of the match and a new star seemingly being discovered, Ronaldo has dominated the headlines especially after what he did once the full-time whistle had gone. Santos was also asked about about Ronaldo's reaction to being benched, with the 68-year-old complimenting the response of his captain.
He said: "Cristiano has shown that he is a professional of choice and a captain of a handful. He didn't create any problem, really. We spoke before the game and he had no issue with my decision. Cristiano's an example."
The former Man United star has now broken his silence to praise his team-mates for their win, writing on Instagram: "Amazing day for Portugal, with a historic result in the biggest contest in world soccer. Luxury exhibition by a team full of talent and youth. Congratulations to our national team. The dream is alive! To the very end! Come on, Portugal!"
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