Portugal Coach Sets High Expectations for Ronaldo Ahead of Uzbekistan Match

As teams prepare for the final stage of preparation for the World Cup, which will be hosted by the US, Mexico, and Canada, the Uzbekistan national team will make its debut in the tournament.

In Group K, Uzbekistan will face off against Colombia, Portugal, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Portugal national team coach Roberto Martines has spoken about the physical condition and performance of his star player, Cristiano Ronaldo, ahead of the World Cup.

Martines watched the match between Saudi Arabian clubs Al-Nasr and Al-Hilal (1:1), observing and evaluating the performances of several national team players, including Ruben Neves, Joao Felix, and Cristiano Ronaldo.

'Cristiano still has a huge desire to win and I haven't seen his level drop since he moved to Saudi Arabia. He's playing very well and has proven how important he is to the Portuguese national team. Despite all his achievements and successes, Ronaldo has maintained his high level of motivation,' said Roberto Martines.

At the same time, the coach emphasized that past services do not automatically guarantee a place in the team.

'Just having achievements is not enough to secure a spot in the national team. A player must contribute to the team's success. Ronaldo, as the team captain, has achieved amazing results, but he has the same obligations as any other player,' added the coach.

Roberto Martines is expected to announce the final squad for the 2026 World Cup on May 19. If Cristiano Ronaldo is included, it will be his sixth World Cup appearance.

The Portuguese national team will begin their World Cup campaign against the Democratic Republic of Congo on June 17, followed by matches against Uzbekistan and Colombia in the group stage.

Football experts highly rate the potential of the Portuguese players, considering them among the main contenders for the World Cup. The 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo has won all major trophies except the World Cup throughout his career.

Ronaldo has played 226 matches for the Portuguese national team, scoring 143 goals, both of which are world records.