Cristiano Ronaldo Defies Critics Amid World Cup

Cristiano Ronaldo is under fire at the World Cup, but Joao Cancelo insists he doesn't need to prove anything.

Cancelo addressed the negative media attention surrounding Ronaldo after Portugal drew 1-1 with DR Congo.

Ronaldo recently joined Lionel Messi as the only players to have competed in six different World Cup tournaments, as of 2023.

Ronaldo remains the men's all-time leading international scorer, having netted 143 goals since his debut in 2003.

Neymar is the top scorer in the history of Brazil, boasting 79 goals in 128 appearances, but critics question his current fitness.

Cancelo believes the unparalleled achievements of Ronaldo and Neymar should command absolute respect from the global football community.

And Portugal face Uzbekistan on Tuesday before playing Colombia in their final group stage match.

But Brazil will take on Scotland on Wednesday to conclude Group C, with Neymar fit to return, according to Carlo Ancelotti.

So Jack Hendry says he has no fear about facing Neymar, having played against him in the Champions League.

Hendry noted: "I'm quite comfortable coming up against Neymar and I look forward to it, it really should be a good battle."

Both nations desperately require victories in these upcoming games to secure the top spot in their respective groups.

Portugal's final group stage match is against Colombia, while Brazil face Scotland, with the winners ensuring a favorable path into the tournament's knockout rounds, as of the current World Cup schedule.