Cristiano Ronaldo praised his Portugal teammates' performance after Switzerland were hammered 6-1 in the last 16 of the World Cup.
Former Manchester United man Ronaldo is the captain of his country and started every group game as they finished top of Group H. Portugal did labour at points, though, as they only scraped past Ghana with a 3-2 win before losing to South Korea in their final match.
Ronaldo managed only one goal, a penalty in the opening game, but it still came as a surprise to many that he was axed for the game against Switzerland.
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Young Benfica striker Goncalo Ramos replaced him and the manager's decision was immediately vindicated as a much more exciting and dynamic Portugal tore the Swiss to shreds. Ramos opened the scoring and went on to bag the first hat-trick of the tournament in a 6-1 win.
Ronaldo didn't react well to losing his spot in the side at Old Trafford this season and criticised managed Erik ten Hag in an interview with Piers Morgan, saying he did not respect the Dutchman. That directly led to his contract being terminated by mutual consent.
However, the 37-year-old has been much more diplomatic in his reaction to Portugal's win. He wrote on Instagram: "Incredible day for Portugal, with a historic result in the biggest competition in world football. Luxury exhibition of a team full of talent and youth. Our Selection is to be congratulated. The dream is alive! Until the end! Strength, Portugal! "
Ronaldo came on for the last 15 minutes and saw a goal ruled out for offside. Pepe, Raphael Guerreiro and Rafael Leao were also on the score sheet as Portgual set up a quarter-final clash with Morocco.
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