Portugal returned to the World Cup in 2026, looking to improve on their 2022 knockout-round exit. Under Roberto Martínez, they were ready to write the next chapter.
Portugal's squad combines generational upheaval with a last-dance subplot. Cristiano Ronaldo, 41 by the opening match, has never explicitly closed the door on continuing but has played progressively fewer minutes in qualification. Around him: Bernardo Silva, Bruno Fernandes, João Félix, Rafael Leão, Vitinha, Rúben Dias a generation that would be contenders at any World Cup in history. Manager Roberto Martínez, the former Belgium coach, replaced Fernando Santos in 2023 and has steered a transition.
Portugal emerged from the group stage unbeaten, showing resilience in a tough opening round. They edged past Croatia in the Round of 32, and were narrowly knocked out by Spain in the Round of 16. The narrowest of defeats against Spain ended what had been a promising tournament run.
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Failed to score in 2 of 5 matches eliminated in the group stage.
Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, enters his sixth World Cup more than any outfield player in history. His 138+ international goals remain the all-time men's record by a wide margin. Whether 2026 is his swansong or just his sixth appearance, his presence gives the tournament a gravitational center. Cristiano Ronaldo led Portugal's attack with 3 goals 2 in the group stage and 1 in the round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup.
vs Uzbekistan
group stage
Ronaldo reached 11 career World Cup goals 3 scored before half-time.
Martínez, 52, had spent six years with Belgium before taking Portugal in 2023. His Portugal reign has balanced respecting Ronaldo's stature with introducing younger players Gonçalo Ramos, João Neves, Francisco Conceição into decisive minutes. Managed 2 nations at World Cups 10 World Cup matches managed in total.
