Portugal winger Francisco Conceição told reporters on Sunday that the squad feels no duty to feed Ronaldo during the World Cup. After a 1‑1 opening draw with Congo DR, the 23‑year‑old stressed the team will pass to the player who is unmarked, not to a name. He praised Ronaldo’s relentless hunger as a model for the younger generation on the global stage.

Critics have latched onto Portugal’s reliance on the veteran forward, but coach Roberto Martínez kept his side training in Palm Beach ahead of Tuesday’s Group K clash with Uzbekistan in Houston. Conceição, a Juventus regular since his £27.5 million permanent move from Porto, said pressure is routine for players from big clubs, and the next match must deliver quality and a win.

Conceição’s comments underline a shift from idol‑centric play to a collective approach as Portugal seeks its first tournament victory. By emphasizing instinctive decisions over forced passes, the young winger hopes to free the team from media narratives that tie success to a single star. Portugal must convert that mindset into points in Houston to stay alive.