Francisco Conceição: Team doesn't play only for Ronaldo, no one like him for goals

Published Jun 22, 02:30 AM UTC

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Portuguese winger Francisco Conceição has publicly defended captain Cristiano Ronaldo following criticism from some supporters after Portugal's 1-1 draw with the Democratic Republic of Congo. Speaking at a press conference ahead of the match against Uzbekistan, Conceição dismissed claims that the team plays solely for Ronaldo, stating, 'When it comes to scoring goals, there is no one like him. We don’t feel the need or obligation to give him the ball. I pass to the player who is best positioned.' The 23-year-old also praised Ronaldo's influence, calling him an example due to his career and 'hunger for victory,' and noted that Ronaldo trains as if every session is his last, motivating the rest of the squad to match his dedication.

Source report

Following criticism after Portugal's 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo, Cristiano Ronaldo has received strong support from within the national team camp. The 41-year-old forward was defended on Sunday by Francisco Conceição during a press conference ahead of Tuesday's match against Uzbekistan (7 p.m.).

No Pressure to Serve the Captain

Conceição, the Juventus winger, dismissed the notion that Portugal's players feel compelled to pass to their captain.

"I believe that Cristiano, when it comes to scoring goals, there's no one like him. We don't feel the need or obligation to give him the ball. I pass to the player who is best positioned."

Ronaldo as a Role Model

The 23-year-old also highlighted Ronaldo's influence on the squad:

Emphasized his career and relentless drive to win
Noted his daily motivation to train "as if it were his last session"
Stated that if Ronaldo, with all his achievements, still shows such desire, "then ours must be even greater"

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Source

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Original headline: Francisco Conceiçao au soutien de Cristiano Ronaldo : « Quand il s'agit de marquer des buts, il n'y a personne comme lui »

Original language: FR-FR

Part of this Story

Thierry Henry and Pundits Criticize Ronaldo's Selfish Play in Portugal's World Cup Draw

See the full Story: all sources and camp coverage