Forlán: Ronaldo's static play limits Portugal's attack

Hupu Football News — On the eve of the World Cup Round of 16, Uruguay legend Diego Forlán has shared his assessment of Cristiano Ronaldo's group-stage performances, suggesting the 41-year-old's current style of play is hindering the Portuguese team.

Portugal drew 0-0 with Colombia in the final round of Group K, securing qualification for the Round of 32 as group runners-up. Despite advancing, Roberto Martínez's side has yet to convince. They now face a tough knockout-stage opponent in Croatia.

As the team's talisman, Ronaldo has once again come under public scrutiny. Objectively, he has had his moments in this tournament:

• Scored a brace against Uzbekistan
• Surpassed Eusébio with 12 goals to become Portugal's all-time top scorer in World Cups
• Achieved the feat of scoring in six consecutive World Cups

However, expectations for a superstar of his caliber remain exceptionally high.

Speaking on a talk show hosted by Sergio Agüero, Forlán did not hold back in pointing out Ronaldo's issues. He believes Ronaldo's current style of play has stalled Portugal's attack.

"The core issue is that Ronaldo has completely fixed himself in the center-forward position. He just waits in the box for the ball and no longer drops deep to link up like he used to. He probably thinks, 'If I stay near the goal, I can score when the chance comes,' but this approach actually limits the team's overall play."

Forlán further explained the tactical implications:

"Because he doesn't move, the two opposing center-backs don't have to move either. They can easily mark him out of the game. Worse still, by staying static up front, he actually blocks the attacking space. One defender marks him, and the other is free, leaving no room for teammates to make runs. If he could drift wide more often, dragging defenders with him, his teammates would have space to break through. He's playing too rigidly now."

Oscar Ruggeri, also on the show, added that Ronaldo's reluctance to run might be due to fear of exposing a lack of stamina. Agüero was more blunt: "I think he really can't run anymore."

Regarding Portugal's prospects, Forlán said:

"Their attack is stagnant; they always push in one direction, like a funnel. I don't know if Ronaldo is a problem for the team now, but the team has to make him understand: 'You need to move, create space, and then goals will come naturally.'"

Portugal's do-or-die match against Croatia will take place on July 3 at 7:00 AM Beijing Time at BMO Field in Toronto, Canada. The winner will face the winner of the Spain vs. Austria match in the next round.

Source: X Posted in: Shanghai Read: 1,317

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