Cristiano Ronaldo will participate in his sixth World Cup in 2026, extending his record as an active key player for Portugal at age 41 [1, 2]. Portugal will open its World Cup campaign on June 18 in the United States [2].
Ronaldo is the all-time leading scorer in international football, having netted 143 goals, a mark that highlights his longevity and goal-scoring prowess [1]. Portugal coach Roberto Martinez called Ronaldo "the greatest player of all time" and praised his continued high-level performance [1]. Former teammate Joao Aroso said, "Cristiano allows our small country to be known worldwide for something great — because of all the positive things he stands for" [1].
Ahead of the tournament, Portugal played a friendly match against Chile as part of their preparation [2]. On June 6, Ronaldo joined the national team training camp ahead of the World Cup opener [2].
Portugal is drawn into a group with newcomers Uzbekistan and DR Congo, as well as Colombia, led by James Rodriguez [3, 4, 5, 6]. Uzbekistan makes its World Cup debut after qualifying with 10 wins, 1 loss, and 5 draws, boosted by systematic investment and a strong youth development program [3, 4, 5, 6]. They hold a FIFA ranking of 50th [3, 4, 5, 6]. DR Congo returned to the World Cup for the first time since 1974, qualifying with 9 wins, 2 losses, and 2 draws and holding a FIFA ranking of 45th [3, 4, 5, 6]. Colombia aims to advance beyond the quarter-finals [3, 4, 5, 6].
Portugal faces challenges integrating the veteran Ronaldo into a talented but younger squad, balancing experience with youth [3, 4, 5, 6]. Former Portugal player Antonio Simoes said of Ronaldo, "He doesn't play to win, he plays to be the main figure," reflecting debates about his role [1].
Portugal’s first group stage match is scheduled for June 18 in the US, marking the start of Ronaldo’s historic sixth World Cup appearance [2].
