Cristiano Ronaldo cut a frustrated figure after being denied by the woodwork and picking up a booking in Portugal's stalemate against the Ivory Coast.

The 25-year-old, who has not scored for his country in 16 months, crashed a long-range effort against the post with 11 minutes gone shortly after being cautioned. Ronaldo was confronted by Ivorian defender Guy Demel after Uruguayan referee Jorge Larrionda had waved away his claims for a foul as he surged forward, and both men were cautioned.

"Sometimes it's difficult that the referee doesn't give fouls because he thinks I dived," said the Portugal skipper. "I know the game is very quick and the players are very quick, but sometimes I don't understand the decisions of referees."