Cristiano Ronaldo's former international teammate Fernando Meira has branded the Juventus star's behaviour at the end of Portugal's dramatic 2-2 draw with Serbia on Saturday as "not acceptable".
With the scores level in their second World Cup 2022 qualifier, it looked as though Ronaldo had bagged a last-second winner for his country when his angled shot appeared to cross the line before it was cleared.
But with no goal-line technology available it was not awarded, and before the full-time whistle just moments later Ronaldo hurled his captain's armband to the floor in disgust and stormed off down the tunnel.
Speaking to Portuguese outlet Record, Meira said that although he could understand Ronaldo's frustration, it did not justify his petulant reaction.
"Cristiano's reaction is natural, but it is not acceptable for a national team captain," Meira said. "He cannot throw the armband on the ground and go to the locker room while the game continues. It is unacceptable for a player of his importance.
"I understand his frustration and I agree with him because his goal was valid, but the referees have to make decisions, without VAR, and he has to set an example.
"The example he set last night wasn't good enough."
Ronaldo took to social media to explain his reaction after the game, and said his nation was being "harmed" by some of the refereeing decisions going against them.
Writing on Instagram, the 36-year-old said: "I always give and will give everything for my country, that will never change.
"But there are difficult times to deal with, especially when we feel that an entire nation is being harmed.
"We will keep our heads up and face the next challenge now."
Portugal play their third World Cup qualifier on Tuesday when they take on Luxembourg having won one and drawn one so far in Group A.
