Lisbon, Jun 03 (V7N) – Cristiano Ronaldo’s enduring quest for a FIFA World Cup title remains one of football’s most compelling narratives as the 2026 tournament approaches.
The Portuguese superstar, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in football history, has yet to lift the World Cup trophy despite a glittering international career spanning five editions of the tournament.
At the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, Ronaldo’s campaign ended in heartbreak as Portugal suffered a shock quarter-final defeat to Morocco. The veteran forward was seen in tears at Al Thumama Stadium after the final whistle, marking another emotional setback in his long pursuit of global glory.
Following Portugal’s elimination, Ronaldo wrote on social media that winning the World Cup for his country had always been his greatest dream. He expressed disappointment that despite giving his best across multiple tournaments, the title had remained out of reach.
Despite criticism and uncertainty surrounding his role after a turbulent period at Manchester United, Ronaldo remained central to Portugal’s plans. During the 2022 tournament, he was dropped to the bench in the round of 16, where his replacement Gonçalo Ramos delivered a hat-trick in a commanding 6–1 win, fueling debates over his place in the starting XI.
However, Portugal head coach Roberto Martínez later retained Ronaldo within the national setup, keeping him as a key figure in the squad as the team transitions between generations.
Now over 40, Ronaldo has once again been named in Portugal’s squad for the 2026 World Cup. Analysts suggest this may be his final opportunity to achieve the one major honor missing from his decorated career.
As the countdown to the tournament continues, questions remain: can Ronaldo finally complete football’s greatest achievement, or will the World Cup remain the one trophy that eludes him?
END/SMA/AJ
