Ronaldo, Portugal seek response against Uzbekistan

Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal will look to answer their critics when they face Uzbekistan in their second Group K match at the World Cup in Houston on Tuesday. 

Both Ronaldo and Portugal came under scrutiny following an underwhelming start to their campaign, with a 1-1 draw against DR Congo denting their credentials as one of the tournament favourites. 

Portugal dominated possession but lacked cutting edge. Roberto Martinez's side completed 783 passes against DR Congo – second only to Spain's 800 in the opening round – and enjoyed 75 percent possession. Yet all that control produced just seven shots and only one on target, Joao Neves's sixth-minute header. 

For a team boasting Ronaldo and an array of attacking talent, the problem was not getting hold of the ball but making it count. Only five of the tournament's 48 teams managed fewer shots than Portugal, while Spain, despite being held to a goalless draw by Cape Verde, registered 27 attempts. 

Martinez will demand a more ruthless display against a Uzbekistan side beaten 3-1 by Colombia in their World Cup debut. 

Uzbekistan coach Fabio Cannavaro admitted nerves got the better of his players. 

"I told them they were too nervous. That's why, in the end, they focused so much on defending," said the 2006 Ballon d'Or winner. 

Cannavaro believes the pressure of a first World Cup appearance has now eased and pointed to Uzbekistan's improved second-half display against Colombia as evidence they can trouble Portugal. 

Much of the spotlight, however, remains fixed on Ronaldo. The 41-year-old played the full 90 minutes against DR Congo and faced criticism over whether his declining mobility is affecting Portugal's attack. 

Portugal winger Francisco Conceicao dismissed suggestions that players feel obliged to find Ronaldo at every opportunity. 

"We don't feel the need to pass him the ball," Conceicao said. "I pass it to whoever I think is in the best position and unmarked." 

Conceicao described Ronaldo as "just another member of the squad", while praising his leadership and relentless hunger. 

"There is no one like him when it comes to scoring goals," he said. "He is here to help, just like any other player."