Cristiano Ronaldo ignites row over video accusing FIFA of helping Argentina at World Cup | Football | Sport

Cristiano Ronaldo didn’t appear to be thrilled about Argentina reaching the World Cup final, with the five-time Ballon d’Or winner making his feelings clear on social media. Ronaldo was forced to watch the latter stages of the tournament from home after Portugal were dumped out by eventual champions Spain in the round of 16. It was almost certainly his last World Cup, meaning he will retire without ever winning football’s biggest prize.

In that respect, Ronaldo will always be overshadowed by Lionel Messi, who lifted the iconic trophy with Argentina four years ago. He came within touching distance of winning the World Cup for a second time on Sunday, but the defending champions were beaten by Spain thanks to an extra-time goal courtesy of Ferran Torres.

The day after the final, eagle-eyed fans noticed that Ronaldo liked a post from the Instagram account @espejopublico that accused FIFA of helping Argentina to reach the final.

The governing body faced widespread criticism as Argentina progressed through the knockout rounds, particularly following their controversial victory over Egypt.

Egypt had a goal disallowed by VAR following a foul earlier in the move, while they were equally furious at the failure to award a penalty just moments before Argentina’s decisive winner.

They went on to stage a dramatic comeback against England in the semi-finals before losing to Spain at the final hurdle. After that game, a mass brawl unfolded with Leandro Paredes attacking several opponents as they ran onto the pitch to celebrate their victory.

FIFA have since launched an investigation into the unsavoury scenes that unfolded, which could lead to fines or player suspensions being handed down.

Ronaldo, meanwhile, confirmed that he wouldn’t play at the next World Cup after Portugal were eliminated by Spain.

He said: “I’m sad to leave the World Cup this way. As I said yesterday, I gave it my all, and I leave with a clear conscience. That’s the life of a footballer.

“You have to move forward. It was my last World Cup, yes, but as for the rest, there’s time to think, to be with my family, and not say things in the heat of the moment.

“Now is not important whether I will continue [to play]. Tomorrow I will get up the same way I got up today: with a clear conscience.

“I played 23 years in the national team and won three titles. Before Cristiano, Portugal had not won anything. The Euros was the most important. For me, 2016 has the same dimension as a World Cup, honestly.”