Cristiano Ronaldo returns to football's biggest stage with another chance to complete an already extraordinary career.
As Portugal prepares to open their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign against DR Congo, the 41-year-old captain is once again at the centre of attention, not only for his leadership but also for the historic records that are within reach.
Already one of the most decorated players in football history, Ronaldo enters his sixth World Cup appearance carrying both immense expectations and unfinished business.
The legendary forward has already scored in five different World Cups and remains determined to finally lift the one trophy that has continuously slipped through his grasp.
Becoming the first player to score in six World Cups
Ronaldo has already found the net in the 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018 and 2022 editions of the tournament.
If he scores against DR Congo, he will become the first footballer in history to score in six separate FIFA World Cups.
The achievement would further separate him from every other player in World Cup history and add another unique milestone to his already lengthy record book.
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Extending his record with a sixth World Cup appearance
The 2026 edition marks Ronaldo's sixth appearance at football's biggest tournament.
Only a handful of players have ever reached this mark, placing him in an exclusive group alongside some of the game's most enduring stars.
His longevity remains one of the defining features of his career, especially considering he made his World Cup debut two decades ago in Germany.
Ending his World Cup knockout-stage goal drought
Despite scoring eight World Cup goals overall, Ronaldo has never managed to score in the knockout rounds.
All his goals have come during the group stages.
If Portugal progresses deep into the tournament, Ronaldo will have another opportunity to erase one of the few statistical gaps remaining in his career.
Breaking this drought could prove crucial if Portugal harbours serious ambitions of lifting the trophy.
Winning the one trophy still missing from his collection
Perhaps the biggest motivation for Ronaldo is the World Cup itself.
The Portuguese superstar has already won the UEFA European Championship in 2016 and lifted the UEFA Nations League twice, in 2019 and 2025.
But the FIFA World Cup remains the one major prize absent from his trophy cabinet.
Portugal also possesses a strong supporting cast around their captain. Players such as Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva will be expected to shoulder much of the creative burden as the team looks to make a serious title challenge.
