Kevin Diaz Criticises Portugal’s Tribute to Absent Cristiano Ronaldo

Former French footballer Kevin Diaz has criticised Portugal’s tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo before their UEFA Nations League encounter against Denmark, describing the gesture as unnecessary because the former captain was absent.

Portugal honoured Ronaldo ahead of their match against Denmark at the Braga Municipal Stadium on Saturday, despite the Al-Nassr forward not attending the event.

The tribute followed Ronaldo’s announcement of his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a career in which he made 234 appearances and scored 146 goals for Portugal.

Reacting to the ceremony, Diaz questioned why the Portuguese national team chose to honour the 41-year-old when he was not physically present to witness the occasion.

“Thank you for everything, now we are going to move on,” Diaz said, as quoted by After Foot RMC.

“Paying tribute to someone who isn't there, I don't see the point; it shouldn't have happened,” he added.

Portugal’s tribute took place before the team suffered a disappointing 4-1 defeat to Denmark in their first match since Ronaldo announced his international retirement.

The Portuguese players wore shirts bearing Ronaldo’s iconic number seven during their entrance, while supporters displayed a banner reading “Obrigado, capi7ão” in appreciation of the former captain.

The stadium also observed a special moment in the seventh minute, with images of Ronaldo displayed on the giant screens.

Denmark, however, overshadowed the ceremony with a commanding performance, scoring four goals through Pierre-Emile Højbjerg, Rasmus Højlund, who netted twice, and Joachim Andersen.

Bernardo Silva scored a late consolation for Portugal.

Ronaldo announced his retirement from the national team on November 5 following reported disagreements with head coach Jorge Jesus.