Cristiano Ronaldo remains one of the first names on Portugal’s team sheet ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, having scored five goals in five qualifying appearances as the team topped their group with four wins from six matches.
He had earlier confirmed that the World Cup will be his final appearance in the tournament.
The 40-year-old striker was expected to miss at least one of Portugal's World Cup games next summer, but FIFA opted to suspend the final two games of his three-match ban, meaning he'll be able to feature in the national team's Group K opener in North America.
Despite turning 41 by the time the tournament begins in June, Ronaldo continues to be an undisputed starter under head coach Roberto Martinez, who cites three pillars behind the decision: talent, experience and attitude.
When asked why Ronaldo is always selected, Martinez says the high standards Ronaldo demands of himself, and his constant desire to be available and contribute, are what keep him in the squad.
He adds that Ronaldo’s hunger to be the best is contagious, and that scoring 25 goals in 30 games as a striker shows how much he continues to contribute on the pitch for the national team.
Martinez, who took over as Portugal coach in January 2023, also highlighted the importance of consistency in team selection.
He says that at international level, teams often have only three days to prepare for a match, and that changing all 23 players each squad does not make sense as it leads to the loss of core concepts.
Looking ahead, Portugal will prepare for their 2026 World Cup campaign with friendly matches against co-hosts Mexico and the United States next March.
Their World Cup Group K matches are set to feature New Caledonia, Jamaica or DR Congo, Uzbekistan, and South American powerhouse Colombia.
Portugal have yet to win a World Cup, with their best finish coming in 1966, when they placed third.
With Ronaldo leading the line and a blend of experience and youth, Martínez’s side will aim to finally lift the trophy in North America.
Source: FOX Sports
