Piotr Zielinski Defends Cristiano Ronaldo Selfie After Criticism

Poland Captain Forced to Explain Post-Match Antics After Heavy Defeat to Portugal

Poland captain Piotr Zielinski has defended his decision to take a selfie with Cristiano Ronaldo after Poland's 6-1 defeat to Portugal in the Nations League on Thursday.

Zielinski's Selfie Draws Criticism

Zielinski's selfie with Ronaldo drew criticism from some fans and pundits, who felt it was disrespectful to his team and country after such a heavy defeat.

However, Zielinski has defended his actions, saying that he is a big fan of Ronaldo and that he wanted to get a photo with him after the match.

Zielinski Explains His Reasons

"I'm a big fan of Cristiano Ronaldo," Zielinski said after the match. "I have always admired him as a player and as a person."

"After the match, I asked him if I could take a photo with him and he said yes. I'm really happy that I got the opportunity to meet him and take a photo with him."

"I understand that some people might not understand why I took a photo with him after such a heavy defeat, but I just wanted to get a photo with one of the best players in the world," Zielinski added.

Poland's Heavy Defeat

Poland's 6-1 defeat to Portugal was their heaviest defeat in competitive football since 1963.

The defeat was also Poland's first defeat in a competitive match since they lost to Slovakia in the 2020 European Championship.

Poland will be hoping to bounce back from their defeat to Portugal when they face Italy in their next Nations League match on Sunday.