Cristiano Ronaldo's Last Chance for World Cup Glory with Portugal
Ronaldo's Final World Cup Journey Begins
Houston [US], June 17: Cristiano Ronaldo embarks on what is anticipated to be his final FIFA World Cup, with Portugal striving for the elusive trophy that has always slipped through his fingers. At the age of 41, the Portuguese captain is poised to make his sixth appearance in the World Cup, further solidifying his status as one of the most seasoned players in the tournament's history.
The World Cup trophy is the last significant accolade missing from Ronaldo's illustrious career. He has netted eight goals across five tournaments, yet none have come during the knockout rounds. His most recent World Cup goal was a penalty against Ghana in 2022, and he ended Euro 2024 without adding to his tally.
While Ronaldo has celebrated victories in the UEFA European Championship (2016) and the UEFA Nations League (2019 and 2025), the FIFA World Cup remains a gap in his achievements.
Ronaldo is set to join Lionel Messi as one of the few players to participate in six World Cups. Despite being in the latter stages of his career, the Portuguese forward continues to deliver impressive scoring performances at both club and international levels. Although he has scored eight goals in World Cups, he has yet to score in a knockout match.
The upcoming match between Portugal and DR Congo presents a fascinating narrative—an iconic player pursuing one last historical achievement against a nation returning to the global football stage after over fifty years, as reported by a media release.
This encounter marks the first time Portugal and DR Congo will meet in international football. DR Congo is making only its second World Cup appearance, having last qualified in 1974 under the name Zaire.
Portugal enters the tournament as the reigning UEFA Nations League champions, while DR Congo secured their spot through inter-confederation playoffs, edging out Jamaica 1-0 after extra time. Key players for DR Congo include Cedric Bakambu and Yoane Wissa, while Portugal will depend on Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, and their skilled roster to spearhead their campaign.
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