Is Cristiano Ronaldo playing at the 2026 World Cup?
Yes. Ronaldo is playing at the 2026 FIFA World Cup for Portugal. At 41, this is widely expected to be his final World Cup. Portugal are in Group K alongside DR Congo, Uzbekistan and Colombia.
Has Ronaldo scored at the 2026 FIFA World Cup?
No. As of June 23, 2026, Ronaldo has not scored. Portugal drew 1-1 with DR Congo in their opening group match. He faces Uzbekistan (June 23) and Colombia (June 27) to break his drought.
How many World Cup goals does Ronaldo have in total?
Ronaldo has scored World Cup goals across multiple tournaments. His last came against Ghana at the 2022 Qatar World Cup. He was the first man to score at five different World Cups — a record later matched by Messi at the 2026 tournament.
Why hasn't Ronaldo scored at the 2026 World Cup?
Portugal's 1-1 draw with DR Congo offered limited clear-cut chances. At 41, Ronaldo's role has evolved — the team's creative play now runs heavily through Bruno Fernandes and Rafael Leao. Two group games remain.
Can Ronaldo still beat Messi's World Cup scoring record?
Extremely unlikely. Messi holds the all-time World Cup scoring record at 18 goals. Ronaldo would need a huge number of goals across the remaining matches to challenge this, having yet to score in 2026.
How does Ronaldo compare to Messi at the 2026 World Cup?
The contrast is stark. Messi has 18 all-time World Cup goals and is breaking records. Ronaldo has zero goals in the 2026 group stage. Messi also broke Ronaldo's record as the oldest player to score a World Cup hat trick on June 16.
What are Portugal's remaining World Cup 2026 fixtures?
Portugal have two remaining group stage matches: vs Uzbekistan (June 23) and vs Colombia (June 27). Strong results are needed to secure their place in the Round of 32.
Could Messi and Ronaldo meet in the knockouts?
It is possible. Argentina are on course to advance deep. If Portugal qualify from Group K, a Messi vs Ronaldo World Cup knockout showdown — something that has never happened — would be the most watched football match in history.
Is the 2026 World Cup Ronaldo's last?
Almost certainly yes. At 41 in 2026, the next World Cup in 2030 would see him at 45. Ronaldo himself has hinted this is his final World Cup appearance.