Was Cristiano Ronaldo's reaction following Portugal's disallowed goal against Serbia acceptable?
Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal continues to make a tremendous impact in the team he features for. As he continues to gain international success, Portugal’s recent game against Serbia during the FIFA World Cup qualifiers has brought him to attention.
FollowPortuguese football sensation Cristiano Ronaldo continues to make a glorious impact in the sport at both the club and international level. Consequently, he has justified his tag of being the modern-day great, alongside Argentina’s Lionel Messi, although the latter has had the most success at the club level.
Currently, Ronaldo is on international duty for Portugal, as he took part in the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. On Saturday, it faced off against Serbia, as the game ended on a controversial note, with a 2-2 draw.
What happened?
Considering the controversy, Ronaldo’s late winner in the 94th minute was disallowed by the officials, who believed that the ball had not crossed the goal-line, while the replays later suggested otherwise. Ronaldo immediately walked off the pitch, throwing his captain’s armband in frustration, as seconds later, the referee blew the full-time whistle.
While critics slammed the officials’ poor call and lack of technology, some even slammed Ronaldo for his actions. Meanwhile, former footballer Fernando Meira, too, believed that Ronaldo should have handled the situation professionally.
Meira’s take
“Cristiano’s reaction is natural, but it is not acceptable for a national team captain. He cannot throw the armband on the ground and go to the locker room while the game continues. It is not acceptable for a player of his importance,” he said, reports Goal.
“I understand his frustration and I agree with him because his goal was valid, but the referees have to make decisions, without VAR, and he has to set an example. The example he set last night wasn’t good enough,” he added.
Ronnie’s reaction
Meanwhile, following the game, Ronaldo had vented his frustration on social media, where he wrote, “Being captain of the Portugal team is one of the greatest pride and privileges of my life. I always give and will give everything for my country, that will never change. But, there are difficult times to deal with, especially when we feel that an entire nation is being harmed. Lift your head and face the next challenge now! Come on, Portugal! 🇵🇹❤️💪🏽“.
What’s next?
As of now, no actions have been taken against Ronaldo for leaving the pitch while being in play. Meanwhile, he would travel with the side to Luxembourg on Tuesday before returning to club duty with Juventus on April 3.
