Cristiano Ronaldo is set for a record sixth FIFA World Cup as Portugal announce squad

Cristiano Ronaldo is set to appear at his sixth FIFA World Cup after the Portugal captain was included in the 27-man squad announced by head coach Roberto Martinez. 41-year-old forward Al Nassr, who is also Portugal’s all-time leading goalscorer, will once again lead the national team in their quest for a first World Cup title.

The selection further extends one of the most remarkable international careers in football history with 226 appearances. Despite the fact that it is in the twilight of his career, Ronaldo remains the focal point on Portugal’s plans heading into the tournament.

Ronaldo briefly faced uncertainty after being sent off against the Republic of Ireland in Portugal’s final qualifier for an elbow challenge. However, he avoided a three-match ban and will be available for the group stage. Portugal will begin their campaign in Group K, where they will face DR Congo, Colombia and Uzbekistan in a bid to reach the knockout stages.

The veteran forward could also be in the running another prominent showdown with arch-rival Lionel Messiwho is set to appear in his sixth World Cup after leading Argentina to the title in Qatar four years ago. The potential meeting of these two icons remains one of the most anticipated storylines of the tournament. Portugal announced their squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup in the USA (screenshot from X)

Head coach Roberto Martinez has named a largely settled 27-man squad with no major surprises, including Ronaldo’s Al Nassr team-mate Joao Felix. The squad reflects continuity and experience as Portugal look to mount a serious challenge for global honours.

In a special gesture, Portugal also added former Liverpool striker Diogo Jota as an honorary 28th member of the squad. following his tragic death last year alongside his brother in a car accident.

PORTUGAL 27+1 MARRIAGE:

Goalkeepers: Diogo Costa (Porto), Jose Sa (Wolves/Eng.), Rui Silva (Sporting Lisbon), Ricardo Velho (Genclerbirligi/TUR)

Defenders: Diogo Dalot (Manchester United/ENG), Matheus Nunes, Ruben Dias (Manchester City/ENG), Nelson Semedo (Fenerbahce/TUR), Joao Cancelo (Barcelona/ESP), Nuno Mendes (PSG/FRA), Goncalo Inacio (Sporting Lisbon), Renato Veiga (VillajoBenfiESP), Tomascareal/Villareal/ESP

Midfielders: Ruben Neves (Al-Hilal/KSA), Samu Costa (Mallorca/ESP), Joao Neves, Vitinha (PSG/FRA), Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United/ENG), Bernardo Silva (Manchester City/ENG)

attackers: Cristiano Ronaldo, Joao Felix (Al Nassr/KSA), Francisco Trincao (Sporting Lisbon), Francisco Conceicao (Juventus/ITA), Pedro Neto (Chelsea/ENG), Rafael Leao (AC Milan/ITA), Goncalo Guedes (Real Sociedad/ESP), Goncalo Ramos (Joventus/FRA), DiPSGoary/FRA

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Published on:

19 May 2026 18:35 IST