FOOTBALL
Cristiano Ronaldo’s partner, Georgina blames Portugal manager for shock defeat
Cristiano Ronaldo’s partner Georgina Rodríguez has slammed Portugal manager Fernando Santos after their shock World Cup defeat to Morocco on Saturday.
Morocco became the first African nation in history to advance to the semi-final stage after Youssef En-Nesyri’s powerful header was enough to give them the win.
This was very likely Ronaldo’s last ever World Cup game, and the 37-year-old ended it in floods of tears as he hurried down the tunnel after full-time.
The legendary forward began the game in the bench, as Santos named the same starting XI that just a few days earlier had smashed Switzerland 6-1 in the round of 16.
The former Manchester United man was brought on after 50 minutes to try and find an equaliser.
However, aside from a good effort in injury time, he had little effect on the game, as Morocco defended brilliantly against a wasteful Portugal.
The decision to drop Ronaldo for Switzerland was controversial yet effective.
So it was understandable when Santos made the same call in the interests of the team.
But that didn’t stop Georgina from blasting the manager.
“Today your friend and coach made the wrong decision.”, Rodríguez posted on Instagram.
“That friend for whom you have so many words of admiration and respect.”
“The same one who, when putting you on the field, saw how everything changed, but it was too late.”
‘You can’t underestimate the best player of the world, his most powerful weapon. Much less should one stand up for those who don’t deserve it.”
Rodríguez had previously criticised Ronaldo’s benching and late substitution against Switzerland.
Even Ronaldo’s sister Elma Aveiro had said, “I don’t know why and I don’t understand it, but I’m sure we’ll have the answers from God later, he doesn’t fail, let’s see.”
Bitter words indeed and a bitter end to the career of one of the world’s greatest ever footballers!