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Cristiano Ronaldo still has the power to, in Louis Saha’s words, “make people keep quiet”. The former Manchester United striker explained to GOAL why his ex-teammate attracts far more criticism than his long-time rival Lionel Messi. Both legends are currently competing at the 2026 World Cup, yet it is the Portuguese icon who continues to face more scrutiny than the Argentine star.

Ronaldo has scored three goals at the 2026 World Cup so far, while Messi has notched up six.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner, fresh from lifting the Saudi Pro League title with Al-Nassr, is participating in his sixth World Cup finals. Now aged 41, Ronaldo has made 232 international appearances and scored 146 goals for Portugal.

His most recent strike came from the penalty spot in a dramatic 2-1 win over Croatia in the round of 32 at FIFA’s flagship tournament in North America. Earlier in the group stage, he netted twice against Uzbekistan, securing a brace that silenced some of his critics.

Although those are strong numbers from the former Real Madrid and Juventus star, Messi has managed six goals in just three matches, leading the Golden Boot race alongside France captain Kylian Mbappe.

The praise for Messi has been relentless, with the Argentine captain now the all-time top scorer in World Cup history. He has earned acclaim for continuing to defy age and produce moments of brilliance that change games.

Ronaldo, on the other hand, has faced heated debate over his place in Portugal’s starting line-up. Despite having little real competition for the central forward position under coach Roberto Martinez, many have been quick to label the veteran forward as past his best.

When asked why Ronaldo receives harsher criticism than Messi, Saha, speaking to GOAL through Freebets.com, offered his perspective: “I understand it. Maybe it’s because he talks more than Messi, claims more than Messi.”

He elaborated, “People tend to side with someone who appears quieter or more modest. Messi comes across as that type – more reserved – and so he’s protected. Ronaldo, on the other hand, doesn’t seek protection. He puts himself out there, saying ‘I’m the best.’ Naturally, that doesn’t sit well with everyone. It’s simple as that.”

“I’ve always admired Cristiano because he talks the talk and then backs it up. Most of the time he makes people keep quiet. Just look at his second game against Uzbekistan – after being heavily criticised, he responded perfectly. That’s not easy, especially at 41.”

Ronaldo has learned to handle scepticism throughout his career, and his response after scoring twice against Uzbekistan showed his resilience. Named Player of the Match, he reflected: “It was a very tough week, a difficult week, when public opinion was harsh on us – on all the players, especially the coach.”

He continued, “Whenever things go well, Cristiano is great; when they don’t, he’s finished or too old. That’s been my entire career, and I’m fine with it. We can’t control outside noise. When we lose or underperform, criticism always comes – especially towards me. But I’m used to it, and I keep going.”

Ronaldo’s longevity at the top of world football – over two decades – has taught him how to block out negativity. He remains focused on his goals, refusing to be distracted by those eager to write him off.

Portugal’s campaign continues, with a thrilling last-16 clash against Spain awaiting after their hard-fought win over Croatia. The veteran forward and his team are still firmly in the race for World Cup glory this summer.