Why Ronaldo’s FIFA World Cup opener wasn’t as simple as zero goals

 Cristiano Ronaldo’s blank outing against DR Congo reignited questions over his place in Portugal’s World Cup side. But the numbers paint a more complicated picture. While the 41-year-old failed to register a shot on target, FIFA tracking data shows he made 47 off-ball runs and was found only 10 times. His finishing deserves scrutiny, but Portugal’s lack of service and creativity may have been just as responsible for a frustrating opening night. Cristiano Ronaldo’s blank outing against DR Congo reignited questions over his place in Portugal’s World Cup side. But the numbers paint a more complicated picture. While the 41-year-old failed to register a shot on target, FIFA tracking data shows he made 47 off-ball runs and was found only 10 times. His finishing deserves scrutiny, but Portugal’s lack of service and creativity may have been just as responsible for a frustrating opening night.