Cristiano Ronaldo dropped to bench for Portugal’s 2022 World Cup last-16 match against Switzerland

Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo has been benched for the country’s 2022 World Cup last-16 clash with Switzerland.

Ronaldo was at the centre of a controversy during the team’s final group game against South Korea, which Portugal lost 2-1, when he made a ‘shh’ gesture by bringing his finger to his lips when being taken off.

Speaking ahead of the game against the Swiss, Portugal boss Fernando Santos said that he wasn’t impressed.

“Have I seen the images? Yes, I didn’t like it, not at all. I didn’t like it. I really didn’t like it,” he said.

“But from that moment onwards everything is finished regarding that issue.

“These matters are resolved behind closed doors. It’s resolved. Full stop on this matter and now everyone is focused on tomorrow’s match.”

Ronaldo has come out and defended himself, saying he was directing the gesture at a South Korean player.

“Before my substitution, one of their players was telling me to leave quickly,” Ronaldo said.

“I told him to shut up, he has no authority, he doesn’t have to say anything.”

How would Portugal perform without their talisman? They put six past Switzerland in a stunning performance that will see them face Morocco after they sensationally beat Spain in a penalty shoot-out.