Roy Keane came to Cristiano Ronaldo’s defense after Portugal was eliminated by Spain in the World Cup Round of 16. His former teammate at Manchester United believes that “CR7’s” legacy is not tarnished by the fact that he did not win the top trophy of his career.
“I don’t think this defeat affects his career in any way. He’s won everything, and a single appearance in a tournament doesn’t define his legacy. He’ll always be up there among the greatest. Winning the World Cup is important, but it doesn’t define a player. Van Dijk doesn’t have a World Cup title, Vidic doesn’t have a World Cup title, Mustafi has a World Cup title. But how many of you would choose Mustafi over Van Dijk or Vidic for your starting lineup? No one! The World Cup alone doesn’t define a player. “Ronaldo remains the best,” Keane said.
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At the same time, he criticized Portugal’s performance. “I’m disappointed with the way Portugal handled things. They were soft. Too many players were hiding; there were far too many cross-field passes when the game needed someone to… take it by the throat. You have Ronaldo, but the rest of the team seemed terrified to make a cross or take a risk. Where’s the fight? Where’s the desire? They played as if they were happy to be on the sidelines. No one took responsibility. No leader on that field. In the knockout rounds of a World Cup, you need players willing to put their bodies on the line. Spain wanted it more. They showed character and seized their opportunity. Portugal seemed to be waiting for the final whistle instead of trying to win. That’s the difference. The Portuguese have good players, no doubt about it. But good players without the right mindset, without the guts. When you’re out of the World Cup, you have to be honest: did they really fight? I don’t think they did. And that’s why they’re going home,” he commented.
*photo source: AR
