The big story surrounding the game between Portugal and Switzerland had to do with Fernando Santos' decision to send Cristiano Ronaldo to the bench. The coach's decision was not free of controversy, but his bet finally paid off after his side claimed an emphatic 6-1 win over the Nati.
Speaking right after the game, coach Santos referred to this decision and tried to explain the reasons why he chose not to field the footballer right from the start. Moreover, he revealed his reaction to this decision and praised him for understanding what was better for the team today.
Fernando Santos on Cristiano Ronaldo: "There is no problem with our captain. We've been friends for years. We spoke before the game and he had no issue with my decision. He's an example." pic.twitter.com/Oxd3NI5ZtV
— SPORTbible (@sportbible) December 6, 2022
Then, the coach added why he chose to give Gonçalo Ramos the starting nod over Rafael Leao or other strikers in the team
"I based my choices on the characteristics of the game, Cristiano and Ramos have different skills. We also subbed Dalot in for Cancelo, it had to do with what I thought the dynamics of the game would be," coach Santos added.
The 37-year-old striker left the pitch while his teammates were still celebrating with the fans, something that caught the eye of some journalists.
Cristiano Ronaldo (left of picture) walks straight off while his teammates celebrate with fans. #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/W7jB6iGQOO
— Adriano Del Monte (@adriandelmonte) December 6, 2022
Be that as it may, Portugal are now through to the next round of the tournament, a stage they had not reached since the 2006 edition of the tournament.
