Portuguese Fans Believe Cristiano Ronaldo Should Start as Portugal Would Be Stronger With Him

Ahead of Portugal's match against Colombia, SportyTV interviewed several Portuguese fans about whether Portugal is stronger with Cristiano Ronaldo. Facing what could be Cristiano Ronaldo's final World Cup, the interviewed fans generally expressed their support, believing Cristiano Ronaldo should continue to play as a starter.

Reporter: Cristiano Ronaldo from Portugal, this could be his final World Cup. I'd like to hear what Portuguese fans think, as there's been much debate: Is Portugal stronger with Cristiano Ronaldo or without him? Let's hear what real Portuguese fans have to say about Cristiano Ronaldo.

Fan 1: Of course we're stronger with him. That's clear. We saw it in the match against Uzbekistan. He came on as a substitute and scored two goals, and almost completed a hat-trick. If he had, he would have become the oldest Portuguese player to score a hat-trick.

Do you think Portugal will be stronger if he plays as a starter?

Fan 2: Yes.

Why?

Fan 2: Because he's the best.

Fan 3: It has to be Cristiano Ronaldo. Cristiano Ronaldo must always start. He's our legend still on the pitch, and we must respect that. Some games will be harder, more challenging, but he's still our best player, and we always want to see him play.

Fan 4: He should definitely start because this is his final World Cup, and he's the reason many people support Portugal.

Fan 5: I strongly agree. I think the reason we're here is because of Cristiano Ronaldo. However, I also think the team should gradually give him a reduced role to give more opportunities and attention to younger players on the Portugal squad.

Fan 6: No, it's definitely better to have Cristiano Ronaldo because he's the greatest of all time.