Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo’s two second-half misses against the Democratic Republic of Congo and a mostly anonymous display did little to dissuade those who feel he ​is past his prime and not the man to lead his country to World ‌Cup success.

Portugal were held to a 1-1 draw in Group K by a Congolese side appearing at their first global finals in 52 years.

Ronaldo, 41, is at his sixth World Cup, a record he jointly holds with ​Argentina’s Lionel Messi, and had two chances to win the game, both of ​which he put wide from close range.

The frustration from his captain Bruno ⁠Fernandes, who had lined up behind Ronaldo in the first of the opportunities, was evident ​and prolonged.

Ronaldo had the fewest touches (25) of any Portugal player who featured for more than 45 ​minutes.

Portugal coach Roberto Martinez was not in the mood to speak specifically about Ronaldo’s performance in the post-match press conference, suggesting the forward was not given the support he needed.

“We have to utilise all the ​players on the pitch. The lead attacker (Ronaldo) needs to be close to the six-yard box ​and we need to get the ball (to him).”

Substituting Ronaldo

Asked if he thought ‌about ⁠substituting Ronaldo, Martinez said the forward’s experience was key.

“It makes no sense to get the best goalscorer in world football out in a game that you need goals,” he said.

“For us in moments like this, the experience of Cristiano in the box is important. The way that ​he attracts defenders is ​important, the way ⁠that we can use the space is important.

“And every player has a responsibility or a piece of quality on the pitch. And clearly, ​when you look for goals, you need to have Cristiano.”

The debate over ​whether Ronaldo ⁠should be used as a starter, off the bench or not at all is not a new one.

His incredible return of 143 goals in 229 caps – both of which are records in ⁠men’s international ​football – puts him among football’s greats.

But Portugal are not ​lacking talent in attacking areas.

They are next in action against Uzbekistan in Houston on Tuesday, before they face Colombia in a ​final Group K clash in Miami on June 27.