2026 World Cup: Ronaldo named in Portugal squad for record sixth appearance

By Adegboyega Adeleye

Cristiano Ronaldo is set to make history after being named in Portugal’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he could become the first male player to feature in six different editions of the tournament.

According to the BBC, Portugal coach Roberto Martínez included the 41-year-old captain in his final squad as the Seleção prepares for another attempt to win the World Cup for the first time in their history.

Ronaldo already holds the men’s all-time international appearance and goalscoring records, with 226 caps and 143 goals for Portugal.

The former Real Madrid and Manchester United forward is currently one of only six players to have appeared in five World Cups, alongside longtime rival Lionel Messi, who is also expected to feature for Argentina this summer.

Ronaldo’s inclusion had been widely anticipated despite concerns over his age and physical demands, with the five-time Ballon d’Or winner continuing to play for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia.

Martínez also used the squad announcement to pay emotional tribute to late Portugal international Diogo Jota, who died in a car accident last year.

“The final list includes 27 names plus one,” Martínez said.

“To lose Diogo Jota was an unforgettable moment and a very difficult moment. But the next day, it was our responsibility to fight for Diogo Jota’s dream and for the example he set in our national team.

“The spirit, the strength, the example of Diogo Jota, the plus one. He will be the plus one forever.”

Portugal’s squad also includes key stars such as Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Rúben Dias, Rafael Leão and João Félix.

Portugal will face DR Congo, Uzbekistan and Colombia in Group K of the tournament.

Before the World Cup begins, Portugal are scheduled to play friendly matches against Chile and Nigeria as part of preparations.

Portugal’s 2026 World Cup squad

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

Defenders: Diogo Dalot (Manchester United), Matheus Nunes (Manchester City), Ruben Dias (Manchester City), Nelson Semedo (Fenerbahce), Joao Cancelo (Barcelona), Nuno Mendes (Paris St-Germain), Goncalo Inacio (Sporting), Renato Veiga (Villarreal), Tomas Araujo (Benfica).

Midfielders: Ruben Neves (Al-Hilal), Samu Costa (Mallorca), Joao Neves (Paris St-Germain), Vitinha (Paris St-Germain), Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United), Bernardo Silva (Manchester City).

Forwards: Cristiano Ronaldo (Al-Nassr), Joao Felix (Al-Nassr), Francisco Trincao (Sporting), Francisco Conceicao (Juventus), Pedro Neto (Chelsea), Rafael Leao (AC Milan), Goncalo Guedes (Real Sociedad), Goncalo Ramos (Paris St-Germain).

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