Cristiano Ronaldo Ready for Sixth World Cup

Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez has hailed Cristiano Ronaldo’s intensity and passion as the 41-year-old prepares to feature in his record-equalling sixth FIFA World Cup.

Martinez said Ronaldo’s energy in training makes it seem as though he is approaching his first tournament, not his sixth.

‘It’s his sixth World Cup, but I can say that, internally, it feels like his first, in terms of intensity, emotional strength, and how important it is for him to be prepared to help the team,’ Martinez explained ahead of Portugal’s opening match against DR Congo in Houston.

He emphasized Ronaldo’s role as a vital finisher whose movement creates space for teammates, adding: ‘Within our attacking game, his numbers reflect his importance.’

Once he steps onto the pitch, Ronaldo will join Argentina’s Lionel Messi as the only men to play in six World Cups.

Despite his glittering career, including a European Championship and five Champions League titles, the World Cup remains the one major trophy missing from his collection.

Ronaldo, who holds the all-time record for men’s international appearances (227) and goals (143), continues to inspire teammates.

Midfielder Bruno Fernandes said: ‘In this squad, I think almost all of us grew up watching Cristiano play, and for us it’s an honour to have him so close to us now and to be able to play alongside him. I think he’s feeling a bit nervous too, because obviously he’s playing in a World Cup for his national team, and we all know how much he cares about and loves playing for Portugal.’