Ronaldo's Still the Gold Standard, Says Portugal Boss Despite Quiet World Cup Opener.

Portugal coach defends veteran superstar as team looks to bounce back against World Cup debutants Uzbekistan.

Portugal's manager Roberto Martinez has brushed off criticism of Cristiano Ronaldo following the team's underwhelming start to the World Cup, insisting the 41 year old legend remains "a role model" for everyone around him.

The Portuguese side, tipped by many as outside contenders for the trophy, could only manage a 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo in their opening match last week. Ronaldo, who's graced the pitches of Manchester United, Juventus, and Real Madrid during his glittering career, was largely kept quiet and both player and coach faced plenty of heat afterward.

But speaking on the eve of their crucial Group clash against Uzbekistan in Houston, Martinez wasn't having any of it.

"I think he's a player that focuses so much," the Spanish coach said of his captain. "Probably the biggest example of how to focus on the aspects that you can influence the way he recovers, the way he prepares, the way he trains. He's a good example for us, for all of us."

Martinez highlighted that this marks Ronaldo's sixth World Cup appearance a remarkable achievement for any player. "He's been defending and playing for his country for a long time," he added. "He really wants to keep on improving, to contribute to the team, and he's really a role model for our team."

When reporters pressed him on whether Ronaldo would start against the Uzbeks, Martinez played it coy, saying he hadn't informed his players of the lineup yet.

The coach is hoping the frustration from that opening draw will fuel his squad against Uzbekistan, who are making their World Cup debut and are expected to be heavy underdogs.

"That feeling of frustration we all had as a team, the feeling of disappointment after the game probably that's the best starting point to prepare for the next game," Martinez explained. "We are more united, we are stronger, and we work very hard. The players have a wonderful attitude."

As for the criticism that followed their flat performance? Martinez took it in stride: "We are playing a World Cup, so of course we have lots of noise and tension. It's part of the game.