Cristiano Ronaldo has launched an astonishing attack on Iceland following their 1-1 draw with Portugal on Tuesday evening, criticising the players’ celebrations.
Iceland were making their first appearance at a major tournament, having qualified for Euro 2016 by winning 6/10 matches.
They fell behind in their Group F opener through Nani’s first-half strike, but Birkir Bjarnason equalised with a close-range volley after the interval.
Portugal dominated the game throughout with 65% possession, but only managed to convert one of their 26 shots on goal.
Iceland’s resolute defensive performance and ability to grind out a valuable point earned the debutants huge praise from fans and pundits alike, but Ronaldo did not share that enthusiasm.
Following his side’s draw, Ronaldo said: “Iceland only tried to defend. They had two chances and then did not try to score.
“They celebrated like they had won the Euro cup or something. That’s a small mentality. That’s why they’ll do nothing.”
Ronaldo – who recently won his third Champions League title – had been suffering from relatively poor form and fitness in the run-up to Euro 2016, and failed to make the difference for his nation against Iceland.
He attempted 10 shots, but a mere one was on target. He also won just one of his three take-ons, though did display an impressive 90% pass accuracy.
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