AHEAD OF PORTUGAL’S MATCH AGAINST SOUTH KOREA, RONALDO SKIPS TRAINING AT THE FIFA WORLD CUP.

Prior to their final World Cup group match against South Korea, Cristiano Ronaldo did not participate in Wednesday’s practice session with his Portugal teammates.

According to a source from the Portuguese football association, the 37-year-old striker from Portugal was performing “special recuperation work.”

Ronaldo scored a penalty in his nation’s opening victory over Ghana despite being without a club since leaving Manchester United during the tournament.

In their second game, Portugal defeated Uruguay 2-0 to advance to the round of 16. Ronaldo appeared to claim a goal, but he did not touch the ball, and Bruno Fernandes was given credit for it instead.

They only need a point against South Korea on Friday to secure first place, but they may potentially lose and maintain that position if Ghana picks up points or wins but fails to overturn a three-goal deficit.

Goncalo Ramos, a 21-year-old striker for Benfica, participated in a training drill with 10 other regular players during a portion of Portugal’s practice that was seen by AFP. Ronaldo was not present.

If Ronaldo is out for the match against South Korea, Ramos, Andre Silva of RB Leipzig, or Rafael Leao of AC Milan would be the likely starters.

Silva stated at a news conference, “I’m ready to be on the pitch, like everyone who is available.”

“The coach gets to make that decision. It is my responsibility to be ready, and you can trust that I am.