Cristiano Ronaldo remains an unstoppable force for both Portugal and Al Nassr. The former Real Madrid striker continues to defy age and expectations. Despite no longer playing in Europe, the Portuguese legend remains central to his national team’s ambitions, especially as they edge closer to qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Ahead of Portugal’s crucial qualifiers against Ireland and Hungary, Ronaldo was honored with the Globe Prestige Award at the Portugal Football Globes ceremony. The award was a recognition of his enduring impact on the sport. During the event, Ronaldo took the stage to reflect on his future, making it clear that retirement is not on his immediate horizon.
At 40 years old, the Portuguese icon remains the heartbeat of the national team. CR7 is now on the brink of another historic milestone. One goal in the upcoming World Cup Qualifiers would make him the all-time top scorer in World Cup qualifying history. Ronaldo has the opportunity to surpass Guatemala’s Carlos “Pescadito” Ruiz (39 goals). Already the most capped player (223) and the top international scorer (141 goals) in world football, Ronaldo continues to defy time and expectations.
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Ronaldo stated,
“My plan is clear – I want to continue playing football for a few more years. I’m still producing good things, helping my club and Portugal. Why not continue? I know I don’t have many years left, but the time I do have, I want to enjoy it to the fullest.”
Ronaldo emphasized his gratitude toward his teammates and the new generation of Portuguese players, saying, “I want to thank all my teammates for everything I’ve learned from them and this young generation. We want World Cup 2026 qualification.”
The veteran forward, who has scored vital goals throughout Portugal’s qualifying campaign, also shared his mindset about longevity and motivation: “I live day by day, no long-term plans. I enjoy every training session, every match. Our goal now is to win the next two games and get closer to qualification — what happens at the World Cup, we’ll see.”
Portugal will host Ireland on October 11 and Hungary on October 14, both at the Estadio Jose Alvalade in Lisbon. Ronaldo will once again lead the charge as his nation looks to secure a spot on football’s biggest stage. Victory in these two matches could all but confirm their qualification to next year’s World Cup.
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