Ronaldo shares training photos as Portugal prepare for their FIFA World Cup 2026 opener
Florida, June 14
Football legend Cristiano Ronaldo hit the ground running as he participated in a training session alongwith the rest of his Portugal teammates ahead of the team's FIFA World Cup 2026 opening match against DR Congo on June 17.
Cristiano Ronaldo posted multiple photos on his Instagram account showing him training with his Portugal teammates at their camp in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.
The Portugal captain featured in both warm-up matches against Chile and Nigeria but did not find the net, while his team won both encounters 2-1.
Speaking before the team's departure to the United States on June 12, the 41-year-old declared his fitness while responding to questions about his fitness from reporters, saying, as quoted by ESPN, "Physically? I'm fine -- have you not seen my matches?"
Ronaldo also expressed satisfaction with his team's preparations for the World Cup, which is being played across the US, Mexico and Canada from June 11 to July 19."It has been good but tiring because we've worked hard," Ronaldo said.
"We've had the upper hand in our matches, but what matters most is when the ball starts rolling on the 17th, in the first game, and then when the pressure really starts to mount -- that's when we'll see the true champions," the Portugal star added.
Ronaldo holds the record for the most appearances (227) and goals (143) in men's international football. He is now aiming to win the only major trophy that has eluded his career.
Asked if Portugal are frontrunners to clinch the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Ronaldo said: "We'll only know at the end."
Ronaldo said Portugal are excited for the World Cup, describing it as a special tournament like the European Championship, and added that the team will go in with hope and optimism.
"We're really looking forward to it; we know the World Cup is always a special tournament, just like the European Championship, so we're heading there full of hope," he said.
Portugal has yet to win the FIFA World Cup, with their best result coming in 1966 when they finished third. However, they enter the tournament with a strong squad, led by players such as Bruno Fernandes, who is coming off an excellent season with Manchester United.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Interesting that Ronaldo didn't score in the warm-ups but Portugal still won. Shows the team depth beyond just him. Bruno Fernandes is going to be key if they want to go deep. 🇵🇹
His confidence is amazing. "Have you not seen my matches?" - love that attitude! But honestly, at this age, I hope he manages his fitness well. The World Cup is a long tournament. Hope Portugal doesn't burn out early like in previous editions.
Look at the stadium infrastructure in Florida where they're training - makes me wonder when India will ever host such an event. We have the passion but need the planning. Anyway, best of luck to Ronaldo and Portugal! 🇮🇳⚽
It's incredible that at 41, Ronaldo is still the captain and leading from the front. But Portugal's best finish was 3rd in 1966; they haven't won it yet. This might be CR7's last dance. Would be poetic if he finally lifts that trophy. 🏆
Ronaldo's commitment is inspiring. But I think Portugal needs to be careful - they can't rely only on CR7 magic. Bruno Fernandes and the younger players need to step up. The group stage is tricky with DR Congo first. Hope we see some good football!
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