41-year-old forward 

©IMAGO

On Wednesday against DR Congo, Cristiano Ronaldo became the second-oldest field player in World Cup history. Ronaldo is 41 years, 4 months, and 12 days old. Only the legendary Roger Milla was older. The Cameroonian striker was 42 years, 1 month, and 8 days old when his country lost 6-1 to Russia at the 1994 World Cup. There is one striking parallel. Like Milla against Russia, Ronaldo with Portugal failed to secure a win as DR Congo (1-1) secured their first-ever World Cup point.

Portugal had struck first with João Neves scoring with a header in the sixth minute. Then just before halftime, Yoane Wissa equalized. It was a historic first goal for DR Congo at the World Cup. It should perhaps have been just a footnote, given the gulf in quality between the two countries. After all, with a squad value of €1.01bn, Portugal have the fourth most valuable team at the World Cup. Congo’s squad value in comparison is just €143.9m.

Furthermore, in goalscorer João Neves and his PSG teammate Vitinha, Portugal have two of the best midfielders in the game. But despite those two world stars in the squad, Portugal were disjointed and lacked firepower. In fact, Portugal would finish the match with an xG of just 0.64 compared to DR Congo’s 0.82. Indeed, the only shot on goal came from Neves’ header that gave Portugal the lead.

Cristiano Ronaldo: The 2nd oldest player in World Cup history, a problem for Portugal?

The stats are even worse for Ronaldo. The Al-Nassr forward finished the game with just 25 touches, and his three shots all failed to hit the target. Indeed, Ronaldo appeared to be invisible on the pitch at times. But Ronaldo wasn’t the only one struggling. Bruno Fernandes, Pedro Neto and Bernardo Silva were also having off days. It might, therefore, still be a bit premature to completely discount Ronaldo. Ronaldo could become the oldest goalscorer in World Cup history at this tournament, but to get there, he and Portugal will have to significantly improve from tonight’s performance.