Overview
- Fernandes told Canal 11 that Ronaldo still changes games inside the area by drawing defenders and creating space.
- He framed selection as tactical trade-offs, citing different strengths offered by Gonçalo Ramos and Bernardo Silva in various roles.
- Debate intensified after Portugal’s 9-1 win over Armenia without the suspended Ronaldo in the final qualifier.
- Coach Roberto Martinez has publicly backed inclusion, saying the team is better with Ronaldo available.
- FIFA’s ruling leaves Ronaldo eligible for the group stage, with Portugal drawn with Uzbekistan, Colombia and a play-off winner in Group K for what he says will be his final World Cup.