Portugal begin their 2026 World Cup campaign against DR Congo on Wednesday at Houston Stadium, with Cristiano Ronaldo preparing for a sixth appearance on the biggest stage.
Roberto Martinez’s side remain among the tournament favourites, but their latest friendly displays have created some doubt around whether they can match expectations.
Ronaldo has now moved to calm that mood before kick-off, sending Portugal supporters a proud message that made clear he believes history is possible.
Cristiano Ronaldo tells Portugal fans to believe before World Cup opener
Ronaldo posted on X before Portugal’s debut, leaning into the responsibility that comes with wearing the national team shirt.
The 41-year-old wrote: “Every time we wear this jersey, we feel the same pride, the same passion, and the same sense of responsibility as on the first day. Tomorrow begins a new chapter.”
He added: “We worked hard to reach this moment, and now it’s time to give everything for our country, and for all the Portuguese communities that support us here and around the world. Believe it like we do!”
It was a captain’s message, but also a reminder of what is missing from Ronaldo’s Portugal career. He has won the European Championship and Nations League, but the World Cup remains the prize still out of reach.
Portugal may have Ronaldo’s strongest World Cup squad yet
Ronaldo also has a squad that may be the best he has taken into any World Cup.
Diogo Costa gives Portugal security in goal, while Ruben Dias and Goncalo Inacio provide reliable defensive options. Nuno Mendes also offers elite quality, being regarded as best left-back in the world.
The midfield is even more striking, with Vitinha, Joao Neves, Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva giving Martinez control, creativity and experience.
With Pedro Neto, Rafael Leao, Joao Felix, Francisco Conceicao and Goncalo Ramos also available, Portugal have enough talent to justify Ronaldo’s belief.
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