Ronaldo’s Key Role in Portugal’s World Cup Aspirations

Cristiano Ronaldo is a vital member of the Portugal national team, having netted five goals in five World Cup qualifying matches. Under his influence, the Selecao topped their qualification group, securing victories in four out of six games. However, the Al-Nassr striker missed the final qualifying match due to a suspension resulting from his red card in Portugal’s 2-0 loss to the Republic of Ireland.

At 40 years old, Ronaldo was anticipated to miss at least one of Portugal’s World Cup matches next summer. Fortunately, FIFA decided to suspend the last two matches of his three-match ban, allowing him to participate in the national team’s Group K opener in North America.

Despite approaching 41 by the time the tournament begins in June, Coach Roberto Martinez has clarified the reasons behind Ronaldo’s status as an indispensable starter for Portugal. The former Everton manager highlighted ‘three pillars’ that influence his continued selection: talent, experience, and attitude.

In an interview with Marca, Martinez stated, “The maximum demand he places on himself to be present and help is what allows the captain of the national team to always be on the roster. That hunger to be the best is contagious. Scoring 25 goals in 30 games as a striker demonstrates his significant contribution to the national team.”

Martinez, who took over as head coach in January 2023 after Fernando Santos, reflected on his tenure, noting, “I always aim to make decisions that will be valid for the next 20 years. It’s a responsibility we have. We’ve played 36 matches and have achieved a commendable balance and consistency.”

He emphasized the importance of building consistency within the team, explaining his preference for fielding the same players during each international break: “At the national team level, you have only three days to prepare for a match. It doesn’t make sense to change all 23 players in each squad, as it would undermine core concepts. We have retained the commitment of experienced players who are passionate about representing the national team, including Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Ruben Neves, Ruben Dias, and Cristiano Ronaldo.

“Moreover, we have successfully integrated new talents eager to contribute: Vitinha, Joao Neves, Chico Conceicao, Pedro Neto, and Renato Veiga. Portugal’s youth football is exceptional and serves as a model for other countries. With a population of 11 million, we consistently produce 3-4 elite players each year.”

As Portugal prepares for their 2026 World Cup campaign, they will face co-hosts Mexico and the USA next March. Martinez’s squad will then commence their pursuit of international success with a Group K match against either New Caledonia, Jamaica, or the Democratic Republic of Congo. Following that, they will face World Cup debutants Uzbekistan and conclude the group stage with a match against South American powerhouse Colombia.

Portugal aims to achieve its first World Cup victory, with a third-place finish in 1966 being the closest they have come to lifting the coveted trophy.