LISBON: Cristiano Ronaldo is set to make history by appearing in a record sixth FIFA World Cup after being named in Portugal’s squad for the 2026 tournament.
The 41-year-old forward, who captains Portugal national football team, will become the first player to feature in six World Cups if he takes the field in the tournament, which begins June 11 in the United States, Canada and Mexico, reports suggest.
Ronaldo holds the world records for the most international appearances with 226 and the most international goals with 143.
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner has played for Al Nassr FC since January 2023.
Ronaldo was cleared to participate in all of Portugal’s group-stage matches after avoiding a potential suspension stemming from a red card in a World Cup qualifying playoff against the Republic of Ireland in November.
Portugal coach Roberto Martínez also included midfielder Bruno Fernandes in the squad, along with a host of experienced internationals.
Portugal’s squad features goalkeepers Diogo Costa, José Sá and Rui Silva; defenders Rúben Dias, João Cancelo and Nuno Mendes; midfielders Bernardo Silva and Vitinha; and forwards Rafael Leão and Gonçalo Ramos.
More read, Cristiano Ronaldo scores 970 career goals
Earlier, Cristiano Ronaldo has added another major milestone to his legendary career, scoring his 970th professional goal as Al Nassr secured a 2-0 victory over Al Ahli in the Saudi Pro League.
The match remained goalless until the second half, before Ronaldo broke the deadlock in the 76th minute with a decisive strike. Kingsley Coman later sealed the win with a late goal in the 90th minute.
The result keeps Al Nassr firmly at the top of the Saudi Pro League table with 79 points from 26 wins, one draw, and three defeats, extending their eight-point lead over Al Hilal.
