Cristiano Ronaldo benched by Roberto Martinez, despite reaching 900 goals milestone

Martinez explains tactical decision: "Cristiano had the most sprints against Croatia; we need to protect him."

Cristiano Ronaldo, recently celebrated for becoming the first soccer player to score 900 goals, is making headlines once again—not for scoring, but for being benched in Portugal’s latest Nations League game against Scotland. 

Despite his historic achievement against Croatia, Ronaldo will not start the next match, a decision by coach Roberto Martinez that has sparked a flurry of speculation.

Ronaldo is in peak condition, having sustained no injuries in the previous game and participating fully in team practices. 

According to Martinez, the decision to bench Ronaldo is purely tactical. 

"It’s tactical. I want to spread the effort," Martinez explained. He further justified his choice by emphasizing the need to protect his star player, "Cristiano was the player with the most sprints against Croatia and it’s just a question of protecting the player and having an option on the bench."

Though Ronaldo will start off the bench, plans are in place for him to make an appearance later in the game. 

In his stead, Diogo Jota will start, following Portugal's robust beginning to the Nations League, where they've already secured three points. 

For Ronaldo, the tournament holds immense significance, particularly following a disappointing summer where he failed to score during the Euro 2024, and Portugal's early exit from the quarter-finals. 

His recent club performance also left much to be desired, with his team Al Nassr losing 4-1 to Al Hilal in the Saudi Super Cup final.

As Ronaldo eyes the next World Cup, the Nations League emerges as a critical platform for redemption and potentially his last opportunity to clinch another significant trophy with Portugal.

With crucial matches against Scotland, Poland, and others lined up, Ronaldo's journey in the Nations League is expected to be thrilling, as he pursues his enduring dream of football glory.