Cristiano Ronaldo is set to make one more appearance on football's grandest stage. Portugal has officially included the 41-year-old forward in Roberto Martinez's squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026, marking what is almost certainly his final World Cup campaign. For Ronaldo, the tournament carries immense significance: despite holding countless records and a trophy cabinet full of accolades, the World Cup remains the one major prize that has eluded him.
Ronaldo's Role in the Squad
Ronaldo remains a central figure in Portugal's ambitions despite being in the twilight of his career. The Al-Nassr striker already holds the men's records for most international appearances and goals. This summer, he could become the first player ever to score in six different World Cups. Martinez addressed Ronaldo's inclusion, stating, "When we talk about Cristiano Ronaldo, we talk about two players: the icon of world soccer and the player, our captain, who has the same demands as the others. He is an example, and we want him to continue with the same level of responsibility and leadership."
Emotional Context: Remembering Diogo Jota
The tournament also carries deep emotional weight for Portugal following the tragic death of Diogo Jota in a car crash last year. Martinez described Jota as a permanent part of the squad. "The final list includes 27 names plus one. Losing Diogo Jota was unforgettable and very difficult, but the next day it became our responsibility to fight for his dream and the example he was," Martinez said.
Portugal's Squad Composition
Portugal's squad blends experienced stars with younger talent. Key players include Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Rafael Leao, Vitinha, Joao Neves, Ruben Dias, and Nuno Mendes. The provisional squad also features Joao Felix, Joao Cancelo, and Goncalo Ramos. Four goalkeepers have been named, with Ricardo Velho serving as emergency cover.
Portugal Team Overview
- Captain: Cristiano Ronaldo
- Manager: Roberto Martinez
Full Squad List
Goalkeepers: Diogo Costa (FC Porto), Jose Sa (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Rui Silva (Sporting CP), Ricardo Velho (Genclerbirligi Ankara)
Defenders: Diogo Dalot (Manchester United), Matheus Nunes (Manchester City), Nelson Semedo (Fenerbahce SK), Joao Cancelo (FC Barcelona), Nuno Mendes (PSG), Goncalo Inacio (Sporting CP), Renato Veiga (Villarreal), Ruben Dias (Manchester City), Tomas Araujo (SL Benfica)
Midfielders: Ruben Neves (Al Hilal), Samuel Costa (Mallorca), Joao Neves (PSG), Vitinha (PSG), Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United), Bernardo Silva (Manchester City)
Forwards: Joao Felix (Al Nassr), Francisco Trincao (Sporting CP), Francisco Conceicao (Juventus), Pedro Neto (Chelsea), Rafael Leao (AC Milan), Goncalo Guedes (Real Sociedad), Goncalo Ramos (PSG), Cristiano Ronaldo (Al Nassr)
Match Schedule for Group K
Portugal will begin their World Cup campaign against DR Congo on June 17 in Houston. They will then face Uzbekistan on June 23, also in Houston, before traveling to Miami Gardens for their final group match against Colombia on June 27. Prior to the tournament, Portugal will play warm-up friendlies against Chile on June 6 and Nigeria on June 10.
Group Stage Fixtures
- June 17, 13:00 CDT: Portugal vs. Democratic Republic of Congo, Houston, Texas
- June 23, 13:00 CDT: Portugal vs. Uzbekistan, Houston, Texas
- June 27, 19:30 EDT: Colombia vs. Portugal, Miami Gardens, Florida
As Ronaldo prepares for what could be his final attempt to win football's ultimate prize, Portugal's blend of experience and youth aims to honor the memory of Diogo Jota and bring the World Cup home.
