FIFA World Cup 2022: Portugal boss reveals why Ronaldo was dropped in pre-quarterfinals

With Ronaldo failing to get a game in Portugal's pre-quarterfinal match, manager Fernando Santos revealed why the star striker didn't feature in the team's lineup.

While talking to the media, the manager later revealed that the decision was purely strategic.

Notably, Santos had expressed his unhappiness over Ronaldo's reaction after he was substituted in the final group game against South Korea.

Before the last-16 game, there were speculations over his exclusion from the squad. Shunning the reports, Santos explained that he has a very close relationship with Ronaldo and that the star forward is a very important player for the team.

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However, Santos explained that he has a very close relationship with Ronaldo and that the star forward is a very important player for the team.

Despite Ronaldo's absence, Portugal crushed Switzerland 6-1 to book a clash with Morocco in the quarterfinals on December 10.

It will be interesting to see whether Ronaldo finds a place in the quarterfinals after his replacement Goncalo Ramos scored a hattrick against Switzerland.