Ronaldo Set to Reach Record Sixth World Cup Appearance with Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo is poised to compete in a record‑setting sixth World Cup after being named in Portugal’s squad for the upcoming tournament.

The 41‑year‑old forward, who holds the men’s record for most international caps (226) and goals (143), is one of only six players to have appeared in five World Cups.

That group also includes former La Liga rival Lionel Messi, who is set to play in his own sixth World Cup after leading Argentina to victory in Qatar four years ago.

Ronaldo, a five‑time Ballon d’Or winner, has been with Saudi Arabian club Al‑Nassr since January 2023.

He remains eligible for all of Portugal’s group matches, having avoided a three‑match suspension after being sent off in their penultimate World Cup qualifier against the Republic of Ireland in November.

Coach Roberto Martínez made no surprises in announcing a squad of “27 players plus one,” a nod to former Liverpool forward Diogo Jota, who died in a car crash last July.

“He is our strength, our joy,” said Martínez. “Losing Diogo was an unforgettable and very difficult moment, but the very next day it was up to all of us to fight for Diogo’s dream and for the example he always set in our national team.”

“Diogo Jota’s spirit, strength and example are the plus one and will always be the plus one.”

The squad also includes Bruno Fernandes, who is aiming to break the Premier League record for most assists in a single season as Manchester United play their final match of the campaign this Sunday.

Meanwhile, Paris St‑Germain quartet Vitinha, Joao Neves, Nuno Mendes and Goncalo Ramos are set to face Arsenal in the Champions League final on 30 May.

Portugal will play friendlies against Chile and Nigeria before their World Cup opener against DR Congo in Houston on 17 June. They will also face Uzbekistan in Houston and conclude their Group K campaign against Colombia in Miami.