Portugal enter 2026 World Cup as contenders under Martinez, with Ronaldo’s legacy on the line
Roberto Martinez’s side face scrutiny over Ronaldo’s fitness and defensive vulnerabilities ahead of Group K campaign in the United States.
Portugal have been positioned as contenders for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with manager Roberto Martinez deliberately tempering expectations ahead of the tournament in the United States. Speaking to the press, Martinez stated that only a previous World Cup winner can be considered a "favourite," a remark that frames the national team as candidates rather than favourites despite their significant talent pool. The squad, competing in their seventh consecutive World Cup, enters the tournament with a complex narrative centred on captain Cristiano Ronaldo and the recent loss of forward Diogo Jota.
Martinez has included 27 players in the final squad but designated the late Jota as a "plus one forever," acknowledging the team's grief following the player's death in a car crash last summer. "To lose Diogo Jota was an unforgettable moment," Martinez said, emphasising the responsibility to fight for Jota’s dream. This tribute underscores the emotional weight carried by the squad as they prepare for Group K, which begins with matches against DR Congo and Uzbekistan in Houston, followed by a clash with Colombia in Miami.
At 41, Ronaldo remains central to the team’s identity, though his fitness and recent form face intense scrutiny. He missed friendlies in March due to a hamstring issue and required a UEFA reduction of his red card ban from three matches to one following violent conduct against Ireland during qualifying. Despite these concerns, Martinez indicated that Ronaldo is expected to start if fit, with the captain needing two goals to surpass Eusebio’s record of nine World Cup goals for Portugal.
The team’s structural strength lies in a midfield featuring Bruno Fernandes, Vitinha, and Joao Neves. Fernandes has recorded 21 Premier League assists this season, while Vitinha finished third in the 2025 Ballon d’Or. However, questions persist regarding the balance of the team. Analysts note that the exceptional midfield may be let down by defensive and attacking vulnerabilities, and Rafael Leao’s fitness and output have been cited as concerns for the current season.
Martinez’s tactical approach has drawn mixed reactions, with some critics questioning his ability to manage the squad’s hierarchy. Nevertheless, his side demonstrated capability by defeating Spain on penalties in the 2025 Nations League final. As Portugal prepares for the summer heat of US venues, the focus remains on whether the team can convert its talent into a maiden World Cup title, or if the ageing star’s workload will prove unsustainable.
