Ananya Lohia , Mexico - Former England striker Michael Owen has backed Cristiano Ronaldo to bounce back strongly after the Portugal captain endured a disappointing outing in his side's FIFA World Cup opener against DR Congo.

Ronaldo struggled to make an impact as Portugal began their World Cup campaign, managing just 25 touches and three off-target shots. The 41-year-old has now gone 10 consecutive major tournament matches for Portugal without finding the net, leading to renewed criticism of his role in the team. However, Owen believes the five-time Ballon d'Or winner has repeatedly proved doubters wrong throughout his career and could respond emphatically against Uzbekistan.

"It did not help Cristiano Ronaldo that Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick the night before Portugal played, but I'm not having the criticism of him," Owen wrote in his column, adding that he would not be surprised if Ronaldo scored a hat-trick in Portugal's next match. The former striker also defended Ronaldo's playing style, arguing that the veteran's role is to finish chances rather than participate heavily in build-up play. With creative midfielders such as Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, João Neves and Vitinha supplying opportunities, Ronaldo remains Portugal's focal point in attack.

While questions continue to surround Ronaldo's influence at 41, Owen insists the Portuguese icon can still deliver in decisive moments. Portugal, meanwhile, will need a much-improved collective display when they face Uzbekistan in a crucial World Cup encounter.