Former Super Eagles captain Mikel Obi has criticized Cristiano Ronaldo’s performance in Portugal’s 2-1 friendly win over Nigeria on Wednesday, describing the display as “average” despite the result.
Speaking after the match at Estádio Dr. Magalhães Pessoa, the ex-Chelsea midfielder said fans expecting World Cup heroics from Ronaldo may need to reassess.
“I believe most people expecting magic from Cristiano Ronaldo at the World Cup will start thinking otherwise after the friendly against the Nigeria national team,” Mikel said.
Ronaldo’s performance generated significant debate on social media. The Portugal captain created three clear chances but failed to convert any, despite the high expectations that follow a player of his stature. Critics argued that even in a friendly, a forward of his caliber should deliver for fans.
“_If this were a World Cup match, his performance against a Nigeria side that failed to qualify would be too woeful and wouldn’t be enough to encourage his fans,_” one fan posted online.
Others suggested the match exposed a declining influence, claiming Ronaldo’s presence in the Portugal national team is “no longer as decisive as it once was.”
Despite the 2-1 defeat, the result was viewed positively in Nigeria. The Super Eagles’ display earned praise and reinforced the team’s growing reputation under head coach Eric Chelle.
Before Wednesday’s loss, Chelle had guided Nigeria through 13 unbeaten matches. The narrow defeat to a World Cup-bound Portugal side signaled a different narrative for a Super Eagles team that failed to qualify for the World Cup and had slipped in the FIFA rankings before Chelle’s appointment as technical adviser.
The performance has renewed optimism around the squad, with many observers rating the current Super Eagles among the most improved national teams.
*What’s your take?* Does Mikel’s criticism of Ronaldo hold weight? And what advice do you have for Eric Chelle’s Super Eagles going forward?
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