While some pundits have suggested that Portugal should begin a transition away from their all-time leading scorer, Martinez has continued to lean heavily on the captain. Ronaldo’s ambition to reach the 1,000-goal milestone remains a driving force, and the 2026 World Cup represents perhaps his final chance to secure the one major trophy missing from his cabinet.
All eyes will be on Cristiano Ronaldo when he leads Portugal’s attack against DR Congo on June 17, in their opening Group K match at the 2026 World Cup. The group also includes Colombia and Uzbekistan.
