Dalot hits back at Portugal critics, defends Ronaldo

PALM BEACH GARDENS, Florida, June 20 : Portugal defender Diogo Dalot delivered a defiant riposte to critics on Saturday, claiming there were people actively rooting against his country's World Cup campaign following their stuttering start in Group K.

Dalot's comments came after what he described as a few hard days following Portugal's disappointing 1-1 draw with Democratic Republic of Congo.

The result unleashed a torrent of online criticism and abuse ahead of their clash with Uzbekistan on Tuesday.

"The criticism will come but the message we have is that millions of people want Portugal to win and there are those who don't want Portugal to win," Dalot told reporters.

"I've been in football for a while to know that criticism is part of the process and we can't run from it. But there is constructive criticism also.

"Our message is clear: we're cohesive as a group, we're strong and we're ready to do everything to win."

When pressed to identify his targets, the 27-year-old remained coy.

"I can't say one or two people, but there are people who don't want Portugal to win," he added. "My job is to go out there, play and send a message that the group is strong and united despite the result. The team wants to do better."

DALOT LEAPS TO RONALDO'S DEFENCE

Dalot also leapt to the defence of Cristiano Ronaldo, who has faced particular scrutiny after an underwhelming start to his sixth World Cup.

"Everybody is aware of Cristiano's ability to deal with criticism. With what people have been sharing, the criticism is part of his environment," Dalot said.

"Pressure is a part of a competition at this level. Our opinion of him hasn't changed, he will always be ready to help and represent his nation."

Dalot also revealed that the players were