Cristiano Ronaldo Confident For Portugal's FIFA World Cup: 'Have You Not Seen My Matches?'

Last Updated:June 12, 2026, 22:53 IST

Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, says he is fit and confident as he leads Portugal to the FIFA World Cup, targeting a strong Group K start against Congo, Uzbekistan and Colombia

Cristiano Ronaldo has dismissed concerns over his fitness and says he feels confident ahead of leading Portugal into the FIFA World Cup.

Speaking in Lisbon before the squad departed for their base camp in Palm Beach, Florida, the 41-year-old said preparations had been demanding but productive. Portugal head into the tournament with victories over Chile and Nigeria in recent warm-up matches, although Ronaldo did not score in either game.

CR7 Confident And Fit

“Physically? I’m fine — have you not seen my matches?"

Cristiano Ronaldo said the team had worked hard during the build-up to the tournament and was ready for the challenge ahead.

“It has been good but tiring because we’ve worked hard," he 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."

Can Portugal Finally Win FIFA World Cup?

Ronaldo is set to appear in a record sixth World Cup finals. Portugal have never won the tournament, with their best finish coming in 1966 when they placed third.

The veteran forward believes the current squad has the talent to make a deep run.

“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."

“We have a very good generation, but there are factors we can’t control, such as the matches — winning or not winning is the most important thing."

“I believe this is a generation that will bring a lot of joy to the Portuguese people."

Focus on the group stage

Portugal open their campaign against Congo on June 17, followed by matches against Uzbekistan and Colombia in Group K.

Ronaldo emphasised the importance of making a strong start.

“The key is to start well, finish top of the group," he said.

“Then it’s one game at a time, step by step, taking it calmly, building confidence and getting into our rhythm. It will depend on many factors, but I’m very confident that things will go well."

(With inputs from Agencies)

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Ritayan Basu

Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for over a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes cricket conten...Read More

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