Ronaldo is warming up against Morocco before the quarter-finals – but he’s sitting on the bench for now Photo: JUAN MABROMATA/AFP
By Darian Leiber
Banker Ronaldo! In the World Cup round of 16, Portugal rushed past Switzerland 6-1 without Cristiano Ronaldo (37) in the starting XI.
In the round of the last eight, Spain fright Morocco is now waiting. And again Ronaldo just sits on the bench.
The next humiliation for the five-time Ballon d’Or winner…
Portugal coach Fernando Santos (68) kicked his captain out of the starting XI before the game against Switzerland. The day before, he had criticized him for his behavior when he was substituted in the game against South Korea (1-2 defeat) when he left the pitch cursing.
Santos brought Gonçalo Ramos (21/Benfica Lisbon) from the start – and he immediately ignited with a three-pack.
Now the same against Morocco.