LISBON: Cristiano Ronaldo’s absence from Portugal’s match against Sweden marked a historic shift as another player wore the No. 7 jersey for the first time in 17 years.
Glorious debut of Bruma
Bruma seized the opportunity created by Ronaldo’s unexpected absence, showcasing his abilities by scoring a goal just 11 minutes after Leao’s substitution. The 29-year-old netted twice, contributing to Portugal’s 4-0 victory over Sweden and ending his four-month international scoring drought dating back to October 2018.
In Ronaldo’s absence, Portugal displayed dominance against Sweden, securing a 5-2 victory in their inaugural match of the year. This result not only highlights Portugal’s resilience in replacing their iconic figure but also underscores their superiority over Sweden.
Why Ronaldo did not play against Sweden?
RTM selected senior players such as Ronaldo to join his 23-man squad, but they, along with others, were rested during the initial match. Cristiano Ronaldo took a vacation, spending time with his family in Saudi Arabia. Consequently, it is anticipated that he will resume sporting activities next Tuesday for Portugal’s friendly against Slovenia. As Portugal progresses, Ronaldo’s role signifies a transition for the national team. Despite being unwavering in his dedication, the iconic striker has affirmed his allegiance to his country’s soccer team until the upcoming European Championship in 2024.
