Cristiano Ronaldo is set to feature in his sixth FIFA World Cup after the Portuguese captain was included in the 27-man squad announced by head coach Roberto Martinez. The 41-year-old Al Nassr forward, who is also Portugal’s all-time top scorer, will once again lead the national side in their pursuit of a maiden World Cup title.
The selection further extends one of the most remarkable international careers in football history with 226 caps. Despite being in the twilight of his career, Ronaldo remains central to Portugal’s plans heading into the tournament.
Ronaldo had briefly faced uncertainty after being sent off against the Republic of Ireland in Portugal’s final qualifying match for an elbow challenge. However, he has avoided a three-match ban and will be available for the group stage. Portugal will begin their campaign in Group K, where they are set to face DR Congo, Colombia and Uzbekistan in their bid to reach the knockout rounds.
The veteran forward could also be on course for another high-profile showdown with long-time rival Lionel Messi, who is also expected to feature in his sixth World Cup after guiding Argentina to the title in Qatar four years ago. A potential meeting between the two icons remains one of the most anticipated storylines of the tournament.
Head coach Roberto Martinez named a largely settled 27-man squad with no major surprises, which also includes Ronaldo’s Al Nassr teammate Joao Felix. The squad reflects continuity and experience as Portugal aim to mount a serious challenge for global honours.
In a special gesture, Portugal also added former Liverpool forward Diogo Jota as an honorary 28th squad member following his tragic passing last year alongside his brother in a car accident.
PORTUGAL 27+1 MAN SQUAD:
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 (Villareal/ESP), Tomas Araujo (Benfica)
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 (PSG/FRA), Diogo Jota (Honarary)
– Ends
