'It wasn't because of his absence': Danilo Pereira defends Ronaldo after Portugal score 9 goals without him

Cristiano Ronaldo had to miss a Euro 2024 qualifier against Luxembourg due to three yellow cards he received in Portugal's previous matches. In the last game against Slovakia, he played the full 90 minutes in a 1-0 victory.

Goncalo Ramos stepped up in his absence, scoring twice as Portugal achieved their biggest-ever win, surpassing three previous 8-0 victories.

Some have questioned whether Portugal needs Ronaldo for the upcoming European Championship, but Danilo Pereira, speaking after the Luxembourg match, emphasized that the five-time Ballon d'Or winner remains a crucial part of Roberto Martinez's plans.

Danilo said: "If Cristiano Ronaldo was here, the result would also be like this. He would help with goals and assists. It wasn't because of his absence that this game was won by eight or nine goals."

Ronaldo, who is 38 years old, has played in 201 matches for his country and has an incredible 123 international goals.