Ronaldo says he is fit and this generation will bring joy as Portugal leaves for World Cup in United States
Captain Cristiano Ronaldo brushed off doubts about his form on Friday as the Portuguese squad left their training base in Oeiras for a flight to Palm Beach, Florida, where they will compete in the 2026 World Cup. The opening match against DR Congo is set for 17 June.
Final training and farewell
Around a hundred supporters watched the morning session at Cidade do Futebol, open to media for the first 15 minutes. The session began with a minute’s silence for a fan who died before the friendly against Nigeria. Afterwards the squad attended a farewell ceremony where coach Roberto Martínez and a player addressed reporters.
Ronaldo: ‘I am fine’
The captain pushed back when asked about his physical condition.
Physically, I am fine. If you have seen the games, I am fine. There is no surprise.
He struck a cautious tone about expectations, stressing the need to take it step by step.
I believe it is a generation that will bring many joys to the Portuguese. The formula is to win the first game, the second, the third… build confidence, get into rhythm.
Coach Martínez’s outlook
Roberto Martínez described the 27‑man group as “the talented ones” and confirmed every player is fit and excited. He said the squad carries the hopes of the country.
We have a suitcase full of the Portuguese people’s dreams. When we are together we are stronger.
The coach drew a clear line between the group stage and the knockouts. “The first World Cup is only three games and we need to reach the second World Cup,” he said.
Journey to the United States
After a reception with Prime Minister Luís Montenegro at São Bento, the delegation left Humberto Delgado Airport at 15:05 local time. The flight to Palm Beach takes roughly nine hours, landing around 00:15 Portugal time early on 13 June. The World Cup opener against the Democratic Republic of the Congo is scheduled for 17 June.
- Farewell ceremony at Cidade do Futebol, Oeiras
- Prime Minister Luís Montenegro receives the squad at São Bento
- Team departs from Humberto Delgado Airport, Lisbon
- Arrival in Palm Beach, Florida
- Portugal’s World Cup opener against DR Congo
World Cup already under way
The tournament started before Portugal’s departure. Mexico beat South Africa 2‑0 and South Korea defeated the Czech Republic 2‑1 in the first two fixtures. Portugal will try to win their group and then look at each knockout round as it comes.
