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Rio Ferdinand has strongly defended Cristiano Ronaldo after the Portugal star delivered a brilliant two-goal performance against Uzbekistan at the World Cup. The former Manchester United defender took to social media to silence Ronaldo’s critics, applauding his incredible longevity, historic goal-scoring feats, and unmatched consistency on football’s grandest platform.

Ferdinand backs Ronaldo after World Cup display

Ferdinand, who has always spoken highly of his former teammate, could not contain his admiration on Tuesday. The ex-England international used social media to celebrate Ronaldo’s brace that helped Portugal secure a crucial win over Uzbekistan.

After Ronaldo’s first goal, Ferdinand posted a simple but powerful message: “VIVA RONALDO!” Later, when Nuno Mendes found the net, Ferdinand sarcastically mocked those who often accuse Ronaldo of being selfish, writing: “But Cristiano is not a team player.”

As Ronaldo added his second of the evening, Ferdinand followed up with a short but telling message sprinkled with laughter emojis: “And another one!”

Silencing the critics

Following his earlier posts, Ferdinand shared a video directly responding to the constant criticism aimed at Ronaldo. Standing up for the Portugal captain, he said: “Cristiano! My god, this is what he does! Cristiano Ronaldo has already made his mark on this World Cup. And you know what? To all the doubters… how can you question a man heading towards 1,000 goals? He’s just gone past Eusebio for the most World Cup goals by a Portuguese player. The only living man to score in six World Cups. People say he’s finished, that he shouldn’t play, that he’s a problem for the team… but honestly, there aren’t many strikers on the planet who move like that.”

Ferdinand draws comparison with Haaland

Continuing his passionate defence, Ferdinand broke down Ronaldo’s intelligent movement and finishing during the match. He explained: “The timing, the precision, knowing exactly when to make a run and then to finish like that. And then the second goal—imagine, a 41-year-old sprinting past a young centre-back at a World Cup to score in the style of Haaland. The great Haaland. We should celebrate players like this, not criticise them! I absolutely love watching this.” Wrapping up his video with a strong message to Ronaldo’s detractors, Ferdinand laughed and added: “And to the haters out there: shut up!”

Crucial group decider against Colombia next

Portugal and Ronaldo now shift focus to their decisive final group clash against Colombia. With Colombia leading the group on six points and Portugal sitting on four after their opening draw with DR Congo, a win will be essential for Fernando Santos’ side to finish top. Ronaldo will be eager to extend his record-breaking scoring run and lead his country into the knockout rounds as group leaders.