Portugal legend Ricardo Quaresma has expressed strong confidence in the national team’s ability to handle external expectations. He believes that at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the entire squad will rally behind Cristiano Ronaldo to help him make one final push for football’s greatest prize.
Ronaldo Set for Sixth World Cup, Aiming to Make History
At 41 years old, Cristiano Ronaldo is preparing for his sixth World Cup appearance, an extraordinary milestone that highlights his longevity at the highest level. It also presents him with another opportunity to break multiple records on football’s biggest stage.
Ronaldo remains Portugal’s talisman and continues to perform at an impressive level, with the World Cup as his ultimate ambition.
Since Portugal’s quarter-final exit to Morocco at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, the team has been striving for redemption. The upcoming 2026 tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico is widely seen as Ronaldo’s final realistic chance to lift the prestigious trophy.
Nations League Triumph Boosts Confidence and Team Strength
Speaking at the launch of PUMA’s 2026 World Cup kit, Quaresma highlighted the importance of Portugal’s recent UEFA Nations League success. He believes the title has significantly boosted team morale and strengthened unity within the squad.
“Winning the Nations League has given the team great confidence. With Ronaldo in the squad, the desire to win becomes even stronger,” Quaresma said. He emphasized that experience in winning major tournaments is crucial for performing under pressure.
In recent years, Portugal has undergone a generational transition, with emerging talents blending seamlessly with experienced veterans. This balance between youth and experience is widely regarded as a key advantage in their pursuit of World Cup glory.
Team United in Helping Ronaldo Achieve His Dream
Quaresma openly stated this will likely be Ronaldo’s final World Cup and that the team is determined to secure the elusive title for him.
“The expectations are extremely high, but that’s because we have the quality to compete for the title,” he said.
“We’ve already won the European Championship. Now, the World Cup is the dream we truly want to fulfill. If we can achieve it, it would be the perfect reward for our country.”
2026 World Cup Group and Historical Context
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will take place from June 11 to July 19 across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. With the tournament expanding to 48 teams, the level of competition will be more intense than ever.
Portugal has been drawn into Group K, alongside Uzbekistan, Colombia, and one team from the intercontinental playoffs.
More recently, Portugal has claimed UEFA Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025, strengthening their reputation in European competitions. Nevertheless, despite their continental successes, the World Cup trophy remains the most sought-after achievement that has so far eluded the nation.
With a new generation rising and Ronaldo’s experience still invaluable, the 2026 World Cup could be Portugal’s best chance to rewrite history.
