The best and worst of Cristiano Ronaldo in one game

Over the years, Ronaldo has been a prolific goal-scorer, but do his diving theatrics take some sheen off his game?

Published : Jun 20, 2018 22:36 IST

Ronaldo signals for a VAR review after going down inside the box from a Benatia challenge
Ronaldo signals for a VAR review after going down inside the box from a Benatia challenge
lightbox-info

Ronaldo signals for a VAR review after going down inside the box from a Benatia challenge

Portuguese and Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo has been in phenomenal form in the FIFA World Cup, evident from his four-goal spree in just two matches.

Having scored a hat-trick in the previous game against Spain, Ronaldo again played a pivotal role in Portugal beating Morocco 1-0 on Wednesday. The goal came off a perfect Ronaldo header in the fourth minute following a cross from Joao Moutinho. His usual, epic celebration followed. This was the best side of Ronaldo on display.

What made social media buzz in the second half revolved around what television pundits and football fans described as his worst side.  

In the 84th minute, Portugal attacked and earned a free-kick inches outside the box after Medhi Benatia brought down Ronaldo. Up stepped the Portugal captain. The opposition would have been jittery, and Portugal expectant, given his brilliant free-kick against Spain.

This one, however, was not successful. Ronaldo slammed his shot into the wall and chased the rebound. He reached the ball and then fell to the ground theatrically after light contact with Nordin Amrabat.

Getting up, Ronaldo gestured with his hands to the referee to seek Video Assistant Referee (VAR) opinion. According to the FIFA rules, the decision to refer to VAR lies solely with the on-field referee and players cannot challenge the on-field referee's call, unlike cricket, hockey or tennis.

ronaldo goaljpg
Ronaldo wheels away in celebration after his goal against Morocco.
 

What was Ronaldo seeking — a card to be flashed, a penalty to be awarded? The referee did neither. Ronaldo moved on, smiling. The game moved on.

Ronaldo is a goal-scoring phenomenon, but has, over the years, earned a reputation for diving and theatrics. These traits do not have a bearing on his goal-scoring, but do not earn him points from fans. Remember the wink after Wayne Rooney was sent off in the 2006 World Cup?   

Nevertheless, against Morocco, Portugal again relied on its star to produce its best moment. He has delivered two matches in a row, helping mask the frailties of his team.

Sign in to unlock all user benefits
  • Get notified on top games and events
  • Save stories to read later
  • Access to comment on every story
  • Sign up / manage to our newsletters with a single click
  • Get notified by email for early bird access to discounts & offers to our products
Sign in

Comments

Comments have to be in English, and in full sentences. They cannot be abusive or personal. Please abide to our community guidelines for posting your comment