Portugal prepared for criticism before World Cup – Diogo Dalot

Portugal defender Diogo Dalot has revealed that the national team discussed how it would deal with criticism even before arriving at the World Cup, insisting the squad remains united despite the scrutiny that followed its opening draw against DR Congo.

Speaking ahead of Tuesday’s Group K clash with Uzbekistan, the Manchester United full-back said players anticipated the intense attention that comes with representing Portugal – particularly with Cristiano Ronaldo still leading the side at the age of 41.

“Before the World Cup we had a conversation about this, almost as a prediction of what could happen,” Dalot told reporters. “When you have Cristiano in the squad, you have to be prepared for the extra noise that comes from outside.”

The criticism followed comments made by midfielder João Neves after Portugal’s draw with DR Congo. Asked about Ronaldo’s role in the squad, the Paris Saint-Germain player said: “We know what Cristiano has done for our national team and for world football. But right now, I feel that, from his side and from all of us, he is no different. He is just another player here to help.”

The remarks sparked debate online, particularly after being translated into English. While many supporters viewed the comments as a sign of the team’s collective spirit, others interpreted them as disrespectful towards Portugal’s all-time leading goalscorer.

The controversy quickly gained traction on social media, with more than 100,000 comments appearing on João Neves’s latest Instagram post. His partner, actress Madalena Aragão, has also reportedly been targeted by online messages.

Dalot said the players had expected such reactions and were determined not to allow outside opinions to affect the dressing room.

“We knew we would go through this and it happened,” he said. “The positive side is that it happened early, so now we can move on and focus on the competition.”

The defender also rejected suggestions that criticism of Ronaldo had affected the veteran forward, describing the captain as someone who has spent more than two decades dealing with pressure at the highest level.

“Everyone knows his ability to handle criticism,” Dalot said. “He’s been playing for the national team for more than 20 years. What he gives to the group is confidence and the message that criticism is part of the game.”

Despite the disappointment of failing to win their opening match, Dalot insisted confidence within the squad remains high and that Portugal still believes it can go deep into the tournament.

“We never hide from the responsibility that comes with the quality we have,” he said. “We know we can go far in this competition, but expectation is one thing and what you do on the pitch is another.”

The Manchester United player acknowledged that Portugal’s performance against DR Congo fell below expectations but said the result may ultimately prove beneficial by serving as an early warning.

“It puts your feet back on the ground,” he said. “I can’t remember a team winning a World Cup without facing difficulties.”

Portugal face Uzbekistan on Tuesday knowing victory would put them in a strong position to qualify for the knockout stages, and Dalot made it clear that the players are determined to let their football do the talking.

Click here for The Resident’s full guide to the World Cup.