For nearly two decades, Cristiano Ronaldo has carried Portugal’s hopes on the biggest stages in football.

Now, at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the legendary forward is preparing for what is widely expected to be his final appearance at the tournament. Yet rather than arriving as sentimental outsiders, Portugal enter the competition with one of the strongest squads in world football and genuine ambitions of lifting the trophy for the first time.

The question is no longer whether Ronaldo can still contribute. The challenge for coach Roberto Martínez is finding the perfect balance between maximising his captain’s strengths and ensuring the team functions collectively over a demanding tournament.

Portugal’s Golden Generation 2.0

Portugal arguably possesses more depth than at any point in their history.

The squad is packed with elite talent across every area of the pitch:

• Bruno Fernandes provides creativity and leadership in midfield.
• Bernardo Silva remains one of Europe’s most intelligent playmakers.
• Rafael Leão offers pace and unpredictability in attack.
• João Neves and Vitinha bring energy and technical quality to midfield.
• Rúben Dias anchors a defence capable of competing with any team in the tournament.

Unlike previous eras when Ronaldo often carried the burden almost alone, Portugal now has match-winners throughout the squad.

Managing Ronaldo Could Be the Key

Ronaldo remains one of football’s most ruthless finishers, but at this stage of his career, he is no longer the explosive winger who terrorised defenders in his youth.

Martínez’s biggest task may be managing his captain’s workload.

Portugal no longer need Ronaldo to press relentlessly or create every opportunity. Instead, they need him fresh, sharp and decisive inside the penalty area, where his movement, experience and finishing instincts remain among the best in the game.

If used wisely, Ronaldo could become Portugal’s ultimate tournament weapon rather than their entire attacking strategy.

Why Portugal Are Genuine Contenders

Portugal’s strength lies in their balance.

They possess:

• Experience from major tournaments.
• Technical quality throughout the squad.
• Tactical flexibility.
• A proven winning mentality following their triumph at the 2016 European Championship.

Most importantly, they are not dependent on one player. While Ronaldo remains the face of the team, Portugal now have enough quality to win games through multiple routes.

A Storybook Ending?

Few stories in football would rival Ronaldo leading Portugal to World Cup glory in what could be his final tournament.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has won almost everything the game has to offer, but the World Cup remains the one major prize missing from an extraordinary career.

Whether Portugal can go all the way remains to be seen. But with a talented squad, an experienced coach and a motivated captain chasing history, this may represent Ronaldo’s best opportunity yet to complete football’s ultimate achievement.

For Portugal, the dream is clear: turn their greatest generation into world champions and give their iconic captain the perfect farewell.