Cristiano Ronaldo has been named as a substitute once again for Portugal’s World Cup quarter-final against Morocco on Saturday afternoon.
Selecao boss Fernando Santos opted to drop the free agent forward after he reacted bitterly to being withdrawn in their final group stage game against South Korea.
Ronaldo was replaced by Benfica youngster Goncalo Ramos for Portugal’s last 16 clash with Switzerland, and Santos’ decision was vindicated as the 21-year-old hit a hat-trick in a 6-1 win.
After such an impressive showing, Santos has decided to stand by the XI that started against the Swiss, making just one change for their quarter-final with Morocco.
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William Carvalho, who dictated play from the base of midfield, has been replaced by Wolves midfielder Ruben Neves. Veteran defender Pepe will continue to captain Portugal in Ronaldo’s absence.
Manchester City full-back Joao Cancelo has also failed to regain his place in the starting XI, with Manchester United’s Diogo Dalot and Borussia Dortmund’s Raphael Guerreiro keeping their spots following their respective fruitful outings against Switzerland.
Portugal XI (4-2-3-1): Costa; Dalot, Pepe, Dias, Guerreiro; Neves, Otavio; Silva, Fernandes, Felix; Ramos
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