Nigeria, June 18 -- The Portuguese all-time scorer who has won the Ballon d'Or a record of five times was unable unlock prepared Congolese defence.

The changing part of the game came when EPL star Yoane Wissa headed in a cross to give the underdogs an equaliser, but Ronaldo's lack of impact was largely glaring.

However, in contrast, Lionel Messi scored the first hat-trick of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Algeria to gift Argentina their first win of the tournament as reported by The News Chronicles.

In matchday one, Ronaldo's subdued display left Portuguese fans pondering if their captain could find his magic in the tournament

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from The News Chronicle....