Ex Portugal international slams Ronaldo for bust up against Serbia

Former Portugal international Fernando Meira has criticized Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo's decision to walk off the pitch and throw away his captain's armband, saying it was "unacceptable" behavior.

Ronaldo stormed off the pitch before the final whistle was blown after he was denied a clear winner in a controversial end to Portugal’s 2-2 draw with Serbia in their World Cup Group A qualifier.

Serbia defender Stefan Mitrovic had chased down Ronaldo's shot and attempted to clear it off the line, but despite his efforts, it crossed into the goal. However, referee Danny Makkelie waved on play, and there was no VAR or goal-line technology to check the call.

"It's a clear goal, but Ronaldo cannot throw Portugal's captain's armband on the floor," said Meira who has 54 Portugal caps.

"Cristiano's reaction is natural but unacceptable for the captain of the national team. You cannot throw the captain's armband on the floor and go towards the changing room while the game is still going on.

"It's not acceptable for a player of his importance. I understand his frustration and I agree with him because the goal was valid, but the referees are the ones that have to make decisions, without VAR, and he has to set an example. And yesterday's was not one to follow."

Portugal coach Fernando Santos was less concerned about his captain's reaction and said it showed “normal frustration” for the situation.

"I don't know what happened, I was told he reacted badly. It's the normal frustration of someone who scores the winning goal for Portugal and it doesn't count. I will not go into it any further," Santos said.

"The referee apologized and told me that he was ashamed. I was in the changing room with him and he apologized. He told me on the pitch that he was going to look at the images and if it was the case, he would call me to apologize ... and that's what he did."

Ronaldo's sisters also posted messages of support for their brother on Instagram.

"This is what is called love for your country, love for your jersey," Katia Aveiro said on social media.