FALSE 10: Ageing gracefully is such a virtue. And not for everyone

Born in 1985, he debuted at the 2006 World Cup and has since led his national side, now captaining them again. He became a Real Madrid legend with over 250 games. But age has caught up, as shown by a poor opening 90 minutes that impacted his team and disappointed fans. Still, his relentless desire drives him to keep improving, playing, and remaining at the top.

To this point, it's unclear if we're talking about Cristiano Ronaldo or Luka Modric, right?

Everything applies to both veterans whose last dance has been underwhelming so far. Ronaldo's Portugal stumbled to a 1-1 draw with DR Congo, the 41-year-old forward underperforming.

Fifty-two years, three days and one Wissa's header that made history - and Ronaldo miserable!

Modric’s Croatia lost 4-2 to England. The 40-year-old midfielder conceded a penalty and faded after Bellingham’s second-half goal, prompting an early substitution.

Despite their similarities, crucial differences separate these "old men," especially in leadership and team influence.

Cristiano’s ego has always been a topic, but it’s escalated this World Cup. He resists accepting his decline and stifles Portugal’s talented team. Midfielders Joao Neves, Vitinha, and Bruno Fernandes can excel, but Portugal needs a new striker, like Goncalo Ramos.

A frustrated CR7 likely knows it, but stubbornly chases new records and historic milestones, hoping for the best yet experiencing the worst.

Is Ronaldo holding Portugal hostage?

Martinez’s side stumbles as Ronaldo argues with teammates, displays poor body language, and likely vents frustration privately.

The divide spreads beyond Portugal’s camp to social media, where Ronaldo’s sister defends him and blames others.

Katia Aveiro wrote on Instagram, "Magically, they forgot how to pass the ball, win it back, or launch counter-attacks. The game focused on passing backwards… A strange World Cup. Very strange." She then liked a post criticising Bruno Fernandes:

"Bruno Fernandes looks like a different player when he wears the Portugal shirt… When Portugal needs a leader most, he often goes missing, leaving the responsibility to others. Plenty of talent, plenty of media attention, but where are the decisive performances in the biggest moments? Fans expect a star who steps up when the pressure is highest, not someone who disappears when the game gets tough."

And all this after a single draw in the opening game, huh...

Are you not entertained! Incredible Kane and Jude top resilient Croatia

Despite a painful loss and poor play, Modric’s attitude and public perception remain empathetic. His penalty gave England an early lead, and he faded after Bellingham’s goal, but he is not scapegoated. Croats recall that without him, they wouldn’t have reached the heights of 2018’s runner-up and 2022’s third place. For Modric, it’s always been about his team and country, never himself.

He’s not the same player, but like Messi, Modric’s commitment to his team impresses. He avoids the spotlight, his family stays quiet online, and he remains humble, aiming to prove himself on the pitch.

FALSE 10: It's a sin...

And if he fails this time, well, he'll have a damn good excuse for leaving the stage without silverware. He’s even older than his country, which declared independence in 1991 when Luka was already six.

Let's just hope Cristiano doesn't find out about this last stat, because knowing him, you know...

By: BOJAN BABIC