Mexico City & Atlanta – Portugal will be without star forward Cristiano Ronaldo for upcoming friendly matches against Mexico and the United States, but national team manager Roberto Martínez has assured fans that the 41-year-aged’s place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup squad remains secure.
Ronaldo is currently recovering from a hamstring injury sustained while playing for Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr on February 28th. Martínez revealed on Friday that the decision to rest Ronaldo for the March 28th match in Mexico City and the March 31st contest in Atlanta was a precautionary measure. “It’s a slight injury,” Martínez explained, “and the player could be recovered in one or two weeks.”
The Portuguese manager emphasized Ronaldo’s excellent physical condition this season, stating, “Everything Cristiano has done physically this season demonstrates that he is in excellent shape and You’ll see no physical problems.” Despite the injury, Martínez firmly stated that Ronaldo’s position as the starting center forward for Portugal at the World Cup is not in jeopardy, alongside Gonçalo Ramos.
This news comes as Portugal prepares for a crucial summer, aiming to make a strong showing at the expanded 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The friendlies against Mexico and the United States serve as vital preparation for the tournament, allowing Martínez to assess his squad and refine tactics.
Portugal Squad Announced for March Friendlies
Martínez unveiled his full squad list for the upcoming matches, showcasing a blend of experienced veterans and emerging talent. The roster includes a strong contingent of players currently competing in top European leagues, including the English Premier League, La Liga, and Ligue 1.
Goalkeepers: Diogo Costa (Porto), José Sa (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Rui Silva (Sporting CP)
Defenders: Matheus Nunes (Manchester City), Diogo Dalot (Manchester United), João Cancelo (FC Barcelona), Nuno Mendes (Paris Saint-Germain), Gonçalo Inácio (Sporting CP), Renato Veiga (Villarreal), António Silva (Benfica), Tomás Araújo (Benfica)
Midfielders: Rúben Neves (Al-Hilal), Samu Costa (Mallorca), Mateus Fernandes (West Ham United), João Neves (Paris Saint-Germain), Vitinha (Paris Saint-Germain), Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United), Rodrigo Mora (Porto)
Forwards: Ricardo Horta (Braga), Pedro Gonçalves (Sporting CP), João Félix (Al Nassr), Francisco Trincão (Sporting CP), Francisco Conceição (Juventus), Rafael Leão (AC Milan), Pedro Neto (Chelsea), Gonçalo Guedes (Real Sociedad), Gonçalo Ramos (Paris Saint-Germain)
Ronaldo’s Recovery and World Cup Outlook
While Ronaldo will miss these particular friendlies, the focus remains on his swift recovery and preparation for the World Cup. The injury, described as a minor hamstring strain, is not considered a long-term concern. Martínez’s comments suggest a cautious approach, prioritizing Ronaldo’s full fitness ahead of the tournament. The manager’s confidence in Ronaldo’s physical capabilities is evident, noting the player’s strong form throughout the current season.
The absence of Ronaldo will provide an opportunity for other forwards, such as Gonçalo Ramos, to showcase their abilities and stake a claim for a starting position. Ramos is expected to lead the line in Ronaldo’s absence, with competition from players like João Félix, Rafael Leão, and Pedro Neto.
It’s worth noting that Bernardo Silva was also absent from the squad list, though the reason for his exclusion wasn’t immediately specified.
Looking Ahead: Mexico and USA Friendlies
Portugal’s match against Mexico on March 28th will be played at a yet-to-be-confirmed venue in Mexico City. The game will provide a valuable test against a strong CONCACAF opponent. Following the Mexico match, Portugal will travel to Atlanta to face the United States on March 31st. This will be a significant encounter against a team also preparing for the 2026 World Cup on home soil.
These friendlies are not just about the results; they are about building team cohesion, experimenting with tactics, and assessing player form. Martínez will be looking for his team to demonstrate their quality and lay a solid foundation for a successful World Cup campaign.
The next confirmed checkpoint for Portugal is the match against Mexico on March 28th. Fans can follow updates on the official Portuguese Football Federation website and social media channels for the latest news and information.
