I’ve No Regret Benching Ronaldo Against Morocco – Portugal Boss

Following Portugal’s World Cup elimination, Fernando Santos has no remorse about benching Cristiano Ronaldo from the starting lineup.

Ruben Neves was replaced by Cristiano Ronaldo in the 51st minute of Portugal’s quarterfinal match against Morocco after starting the match on the bench once more.

Sadly, unlike their last-16 match, which Portugal won 6-1 against Switzerland without its talisman in the starting lineup, Portugal’s quarterfinal match ended in a 1-0 loss to Morocco, which resulted in their elimination from the World Cup.

However, coach Fernando Santos insisted that he did not regret leaving out Ronaldo and said that the 37-year-old was only brought into the match when it was absolutely essential.

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Speaking to reporters after the match, Santos said, “I don’t think so, no regrets. I think this was a team which played very well against Switzerland. Cristiano is a great player, he came in when we thought it was necessary, so no regrets.

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“If we take two persons that were the most upset it is Cristiano Ronaldo and me. Of course, we are upset, but that is part of the job of the coach and the player.”

On Saturday, Ronaldo made his 196th appearance for Portugal, tying Badr Al-Mutawa for the most male player international caps.

As a result of parting company with Manchester United in November, Ronaldo is currently without a club. Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia is said to have made him an offer, although he has not yet decided.