Ronaldo’s final World Cup? Portugal chase historic glory
KATHMANDU: Portugal head into the World Cup with a familiar spotlight fixed firmly on Cristiano Ronaldo, as the 41-year-old superstar prepares for what could be the final appearance of his international career on football’s biggest stage.
Once again, the central debate follows him: does Ronaldo still elevate Portugal in their pursuit of a first-ever World Cup title, or does his presence raise tactical questions that remain unresolved since the 2022 tournament?
Those doubts have not gone away. But under Roberto Martínez, Ronaldo played a decisive role in qualification and, provided he is fully fit, is expected to retain his place in the starting XI.
Portugal arrive at their seventh consecutive World Cup as one of the most complete squads in the competition, widely regarded as genuine contenders thanks to a rare blend of experience, depth and technical quality.
Emotional backdrop: playing for Diogo Jota
Portugal’s campaign carries a deeper emotional layer following the tragic death of forward Diogo Jota in a road accident last year.
Head coach Martínez paid a heartfelt tribute, calling Jota “forever a plus one” within the squad.
He added: “The final squad list has 27 players plus one. Losing Diogo Jota was an unforgettable and extremely difficult moment. From the next day, our responsibility became fighting to fulfil his dream. His spirit, strength and example will always be with us.”
Ronaldo: legacy, records and the “last dance” narrative
Ronaldo remains the defining figure of Portuguese football — not only as captain, but as the all-time leading scorer in international football history with 143 goals for Portugal and in his international career combined.
Yet questions about his physical sharpness continue to surface. He missed March friendlies due to a hamstring issue and also faced disciplinary concerns after a red card during qualifying against Ireland.
His recent tournament output has also declined. At the 2022 World Cup, he scored just once. At Euro 2024, he went goalless despite playing all five matches.
Still, his place in the XI appears difficult to dislodge if he is fit. Beyond team selection, Ronaldo is also chasing history — needing two more World Cup goals to surpass Eusébio’s Portugal record of nine.
Martínez was clear about Ronaldo’s dual significance: “When we talk about Cristiano Ronaldo, we are talking about two identities — a global football symbol and our captain. He represents leadership and responsibility.”
Midfield strength: Portugal’s real weapon
Behind Ronaldo, Portugal boast one of the strongest midfields in world football.
Bruno Fernandes has enjoyed a standout season, thriving in a deeper creative role and registering a Premier League record of 21 assists.
He is supported by a technically gifted core of Vitinha, João Neves and Bernardo Silva — players capable of controlling possession, dictating tempo, and unlocking compact defences.
Vitinha has emerged as one of Europe’s most complete midfielders, finishing third in the 2025 Ballon d’Or voting, while 21-year-old João Neves is increasingly viewed as one of the continent’s brightest young talents.
Martínez under pressure but proven in moments
Despite Portugal’s quality, Martínez remains a divisive figure among supporters, with criticism focused on his perceived reluctance to make decisive calls regarding Ronaldo’s role.
However, he secured a major achievement in 2025 by leading Portugal to the Nations League title, defeating Spain in a penalty shootout in the final.
Even so, he is refusing to label his team as outright favourites.
“Only teams that have already won the World Cup can be called favourites,” he said. “We have talent and belief, so we can dream and be contenders — but not favourites.”
Group outlook
Portugal are expected to progress comfortably from Group K.
They begin against World Cup debutants DR Congo and Uzbekistan, before a potentially decisive final group match against Colombia — a side featuring Luis Díaz, James Rodríguez and Daniel Muñoz.
Portugal at a glance (World Cup profile)
- FIFA ranking: 5th
- World Cup appearances: 8
- Best finish: Third place (1966)
- First appearance: 1966 (England)
- Top World Cup scorer for Portugal: Eusébio (9 goals)
- Most World Cup appearances: Cristiano Ronaldo (22 matches)
- Player to watch: Cristiano Ronaldo
Portugal’s squad is built for a deep run — but as ever, their World Cup story is inseparable from Cristiano Ronaldo.
If this truly is his final tournament, the narrative is already written: one last chance to complete the only major chapter missing from an extraordinary career.
