Cristiano Ronaldo states there are no doubts about fitness as Portugal prepare for the World Cup. Ronaldo, now 41, approaches the tournament after finishing as Al-Nassr's leading scorer with 28 league goals. Portugal open their campaign against DR Congo on June 17, and Ronaldo aims for a strong start.
Portugal’s build-up includes two friendly wins, both 2-1, against Nigeria and Chile. Coaches used these games to test line-ups and fitness levels. When asked about the training workload, Ronaldo said: "It has been good but tiring because we've worked hard. "
Ronaldo is already the only player to have scored in five World Cups. At this tournament, Ronaldo is set to become the first man, potentially alongside Lionel Messi, to appear in six editions.
If selected, Ronaldo would also be the second-oldest outfield player at a World Cup, behind Roger Milla, who played at 42.
Ronaldo arrives in strong form for Portugal’s national team as well. Ronaldo led Portugal in World Cup qualifying with five goals. Domestically, Ronaldo’s 28 goals helped Al-Nassr secure the Saudi Pro League title. Those figures underline why Portugal still rely on Ronaldo in key moments.
| Ronaldo World Cup milestone | Detail |
|---|---|
| Goals scored | Only player to score in five World Cups |
| Potential appearances | Could reach six World Cup editions in 2026 |
| Age landmark | Would be second-oldest outfield player at 41, after Roger Milla at 42 |
Across tournament history, Portugal’s best World Cup performance stays the third-place finish in England in 1966. Portugal then waited until Germany 2006 for another semi-final appearance, 40 years later. Portugal have since built consistency, qualifying for every World Cup from 2002 onwards.
Portugal are one of five European nations to appear at every World Cup since 2002. The others are England, France, Germany and Spain. During that period, Portugal reached the knockout rounds in four of five editions. This record shapes expectations for another deep run in 2026.
Ronaldo’s personal readiness remains a key talking point before the first match. When questioned about physical condition, Ronaldo replied: "Physically? I'm fine have you not seen my matches?" Coaches view Ronaldo’s availability as vital, especially in early group fixtures, when tension and scrutiny are intense.
Portugal’s recent friendlies showed control but also areas to refine before DR Congo. Ronaldo noted Portugal often dominated phases of play, yet understands pressure changes once the tournament begins. Players know the real test starts when the first group game kicks off on June 17.
Miami, Florida, USA #VaiDarPortugal | #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/oCtW8Pc0AvPortugal (@selecaoportugal) June 13, 2026
As the squad travel with optimism, Ronaldo speaks about the wider impact on supporters. Ronaldo believes this group can entertain fans and compete with leading nations. The World Cup, like the European Championship, stays a special stage for Portugal, who enter the tournament carrying both history and current hope.
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