Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez has stated that Cristiano Ronaldo is not preoccupied with the possibility that Wednesday's friendly against Nigeria could be his final appearance on home soil for the national team. Speaking ahead of the match in Leiria, Martinez emphasized the captain's commitment to the squad's immediate goals.
Ronaldo's Legacy and Focus
At 41 years old, Ronaldo is set to feature in a record sixth FIFA World Cup as he continues his pursuit of the only major international trophy missing from his illustrious career. The Portuguese legend remains one of the most prolific scorers in international football history, having netted 143 goals in 227 appearances, a tally that continues to grow. Since making his debut for Portugal in 2003, Ronaldo has consistently delivered at the highest level and also holds the record for the most hat-tricks in international football, with 10 to his name.
Martinez praised Ronaldo's exemplary conduct, stating, "Our captain sets an example in everything he does. He gives his all, 24 hours a day, to help the national team." The coach added that neither Ronaldo nor the rest of the players are thinking about the future. "We don't know what can happen in the future because they can get injured and there are decisions that are out of their hands. The focus is on training, being the best, putting the concepts into practice and showing pride in wearing the shirt. That's the example he sets. His sole aim is to use it for tomorrow to improve," Martinez said, as quoted by ESPN.
World Cup Preparations
According to ESPN, Ronaldo is expected to start on Wednesday in Portugal's last warm-up friendly in Leiria before the World Cup. The 41-year-old forward posted a series of images on Instagram from Portugal's training camp as he continues to prepare for the global event. He appeared in high spirits during the session, taking part in drills alongside his teammates as Portugal intensified preparations for the tournament.
Portugal, the reigning Nations League champions, will begin their Group K campaign in Houston against the Democratic Republic of the Congo on June 17. They will then face Uzbekistan at the same venue on June 23 before concluding their group stage against Colombia in Miami on June 27. The tournament will run from June 11 to July 19.
Recent Successes
Recently, Ronaldo finally conquered Saudi Arabia after he guided Al Nassr to their 11th Saudi Pro League title. He scored twice in a commanding 4-1 victory over Damac, securing the superstar's first league crown in Saudi Arabia since joining the club in January 2023.
Portugal World Cup Squad
- Goalkeepers: Diogo Costa (FC Porto), Jose Sa (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Rui Silva (Sporting CP), Ricardo Velho (Genclerbirligi Ankara)
- Defenders: Diogo Dalot (Manchester United), Matheus Nunes (Manchester City), Nelson Semedo (Fenerbahce SK), Joao Cancelo (FC Barcelona), Nuno Mendes (PSG), Goncalo Inacio (Sporting CP), Renato Veiga (Villarreal), Ruben Dias (Manchester City), Tomas Araujo (SL Benfica)
- Midfielders: Ruben Neves (Al Hilal), Samuel Costa (Mallorca), Joao Neves (PSG), Vitinha (PSG), Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United), Bernardo Silva (Manchester City)
- Forwards: Joao Felix (Al Nassr), Francisco Trincao (Sporting CP), Francisco Conceicao (Juventus), Pedro Neto (Chelsea), Rafael Leao (AC Milan), Goncalo Guedes (Real Sociedad), Goncalo Ramos (PSG), Cristiano Ronaldo (Al Nassr)
