In a move that has sent shockwaves through the football world, Cristiano Ronaldo has been officially summoned to the Portugal national team for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup European qualifiers. The iconic forward, now 40 years old and thriving in the Saudi Pro League with Al-Nassr, headlines the 26-man squad announced by head coach Roberto Martinez on October 3. Portugal gears up for two crucial home clashes at the Estádio José Alvalade in Lisbon: a showdown against the Republic of Ireland on October 11, followed by a rematch with Hungary on October 14.

This call-up isn’t just another chapter in Ronaldo’s storied international career—it’s a defiant statement of longevity and ambition. With Portugal leading Group F after emphatic victories over Armenia (5-0) and Hungary (3-2) earlier in the campaign, Ronaldo’s inclusion could propel the Seleção to mathematical qualification for their seventh consecutive World Cup appearance. Two wins here would not only secure their spot in the expanded 2026 tournament across the United States, Canada, and Mexico but also etch Ronaldo deeper into the annals of football history.

Martinez, addressing reporters post-announcement, emphasized the blend of experience and youth in his selections. “We are competing for direct qualification in decisive matches,” he said. “The group needs stability and experience, and Cristiano embodies that. His leadership and hunger remain unmatched.” Indeed, Ronaldo’s recent form—five goals in as many Nations League appearances last season, including a strike in the quarterfinal against Denmark—underscores why Martinez continues to back him. At Al-Nassr, the Madeira native has netted 10 goals in nine league games this term, proving that age is merely a number when it comes to his relentless drive.

The squad itself reflects Portugal’s depth, a potent mix of established stars and emerging talents ready to chase glory. Goalkeepers Diogo Costa (Porto), Rui Patrício (AEK Athens), and José Sá (Wolves) anchor the backline. Defenders include the returning Nelson Semedo (Wolves), Rúben Dias (Manchester City), and Nuno Mendes (Paris Saint-Germain), with exciting prospects like António Silva (Benfica) adding steel. Midfield boasts the creative flair of Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United), Bernardo Silva (Manchester City), and the recalled Matheus Nunes (Manchester City), alongside João Palhinha (Fulham) for grit.

Up front, the attacking arsenal is mouthwatering: João Félix (Al-Nassr) reunites with Ronaldo, bringing his silky skills; Rafael Leão (AC Milan) returns after a minor absence, injecting pace; Gonçalo Ramos (PSG) offers clinical finishing; Pedro Neto (Chelsea) provides dynamism; and Francisco Trincão (Sporting CP) and Francisco Conceição (Juventus) round out a forward line brimming with options. Notably absent is Diogo Dalot (Manchester United), replaced by Nuno Tavares (Lazio), signaling Martinez’s tactical tweaks for these home fixtures.

For Ronaldo, these matches carry extra weight. Tied with Guatemala’s Carlos Ruiz at 39 goals, he stands on the cusp of becoming the outright all-time leading scorer in World Cup qualifiers. A single strike against Ireland or Hungary would catapult him to 40, a milestone that would further cement his legacy as football’s greatest goal machine. It’s a record that feels almost poetic—Ronaldo, who has already graced five World Cups (equaling Lionel Messi’s tally), could extend that to a sixth at 41, joining rarified air with Germany’s Lothar Matthäus.

Portugal’s path in Group F has been straightforward so far. Drawn with Armenia, Hungary, and Ireland, the Europeans were always favorites. Their opening romp against Armenia showcased a clinical edge, while the narrow win over Hungary in Budapest highlighted resilience—Ronaldo’s goal in that 3-2 thriller proved pivotal. Now, with six points and a three-point cushion over Armenia, victory in these next two games could clinch qualification outright, sparing the drama of playoffs for the runner-up. Ireland and Hungary, both on one point after a stalemate between them, represent stern tests: the Irish boast a gritty defense led by Shane Duffy and creative sparks from James McClean, while Hungary’s Dominik Szoboszlai and Roland Sallai could exploit any complacency.

Yet, beyond the tactics and tables, Ronaldo’s recall sparks broader conversations about legacy, evolution, and the inexorable march of time. At 40, he’s no longer the explosive winger who terrorized defenses at Manchester United or Real Madrid. His game has evolved into a masterclass in positioning, aerial dominance, and predatory instincts—traits that have kept him relevant in a sport increasingly favoring youth. Critics, including some vocal fans on platforms like Reddit, question whether he’ll be a starter or a super-sub by 2026, drawing parallels to Sergio Agüero’s motivational role in Argentina’s setup. But Martinez’s unwavering faith quells such doubts: “Cristiano’s professionalism sets the standard. He motivates everyone, on and off the pitch.”

Ronaldo’s international journey is a tapestry of triumphs and heartbreaks. From captaining Portugal to Euro 2016 glory—their first major trophy—to the Nations League win in June 2025, he’s been the talisman. Yet, the 2022 World Cup quarterfinal exit to Morocco lingers as a scar, fueling his fire. “I dream of lifting the World Cup,” he confessed in a recent Al-Nassr interview. These qualifiers are but stepping stones toward that elusive dream, where an expanded 48-team format offers fresh opportunities—and pressures.

Looking ahead, Portugal’s World Cup build-up intensifies. Reports suggest a potential friendly against Colombia in March 2026, pitting Ronaldo against Luis Díaz and James Rodríguez in a South American showdown. Such fixtures would sharpen the blade for a tournament where Portugal eyes not just qualification, but contention. With talents like Leão and Ramos maturing, and Fernandes orchestrating from midfield, the Seleção is a dark horse primed for a deep run.

As the José Alvalade faithful gear up for Ronaldo’s return—complete with murals and chants echoing his name—the air in Lisbon crackles with anticipation. Will CR7 deliver the goals to seal qualification? Can he shatter another record en route to a fairy-tale World Cup swansong? One thing is certain: in an era of fleeting stardom, Cristiano Ronaldo remains eternal, a beacon for a nation hungry for history.

For fans worldwide, these October nights promise drama, destiny, and perhaps the sight of a legend rewriting his own ending. Portugal marches on, with Ronaldo at the vanguard—because some fires never fade.