Ronaldo dismisses concerns over physical condition ahead of World Cup
By Joel Masibo, June 13, 2026Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has brushed aside suggestions that his age could affect his performances at the upcoming FIFA World Cup.
The veteran forward, now 41, is preparing to represent Portugal at a sixth World Cup tournament and is set to captain the national team once again. Addressing journalists before Portugal’s departure for the United States, Ronaldo responded confidently when asked whether he still possessed the physical capacity to compete at the highest level.
“Physically? I’m fine, have you not seen my matches?” he answered, while also expressing satisfaction with Portugal’s preparations under head coach Roberto Martinez.
Reflecting on the team’s build-up to the tournament, Ronaldo acknowledged the demanding nature of the preparations but stressed that the hard work had been worthwhile.
“It has been good but tiring because we’ve worked hard,” he said.
Positive preps
Portugal heads into the World Cup after recording victories in friendly matches against Chile and Nigeria. However, Ronaldo emphasized that those results would mean little once the competition begins.
According to the five-time Ballon d’Or winner, “what matters most is when the ball starts rolling on the 17th, in the first game (against DR Congo) and then when the pressure really starts to mount.”
He added that the true measure of a team’s character would only emerge during the tournament itself. “That’s when we’ll see the true champions,” he said.
Meanwhile, Portugal heads into the competition as one of Europe’s strongest sides. Currently ranked fifth globally, Roberto Martinez’s men secured qualification by topping their UEFA qualifying group before lifting the UEFA Nations League trophy.
The Portuguese squad blends seasoned stars with a new generation of talent. Midfield duo Vitinha and Joao Neves arrive fresh from helping Paris Saint-Germain capture the UEFA Champions League crown, while Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva continue to provide leadership and creativity. At the back, Ruben Dias and Nuno Mendes offer stability and top-level experience.
Group K features Portugal, Colombia, DR Congo and tournament newcomers Uzbekistan.
DR Congo
Ahead of their opening fixture on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, DR Congo is back at the World Cup for the first time in more than five decades, having last appeared in 1974. Their path to qualification included impressive victories over Cameroon, Nigeria and Jamaica during the decisive stages.