Bruno Fernandes is confident Portugal can give the perfect send-off to their iconic captain as Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup 2026 dream is reaching its peak. The event may be Cristiano Ronaldo’s last international appearance, as he will play a sixth World Cup.
Fernandes said before the World Cup that it would be a unique moment to witness Ronaldo holding the World Cup aloft. For Portugal, it’s not merely about claiming a trophy, but recognising a football legend.
Ronaldo is still going strong. His continued ability to play at the highest level, and into his 40s, is a testament to his talent and work ethic. Although Portugal have performed well in recent tournaments, including their victory in Euro 2016, a World Cup is the only major silverware still eluding Ronaldo.
Fernandes made it clear that the team is playing not just for Portugal’s honour but also to help their captain win everything. This could serve as an important motivating factor for the team. The Portuguese side is a mix of seasoned and young players and provides a good mix for the event. Represented by some of Europe’s best clubs, high expectations are set for their success.
But the test will be tough. The World Cup boasts the best international teams and consistency will be vital. In the lead-up, Ronaldo’s story is taking on more life. Winning the World Cup will not only be a historic moment for Portugal but a perfect end to one of the best careers in football history.
