The Portugal national soccer team is on the verge of securing its place at the FIFA World Cup 2026. This will be hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. However, head coach Roberto Martinez wants to make one thing absolutely clear: despite how close qualification appears.
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Nobody inside the Portugal camp is celebrating or talking about the World Cup just yet. Portugal currently sits at the top of their qualifying group and needs only two more points to officially secure their spot in what would be the country’s ninth World Cup appearance.
But Martinez has remained firm about maintaining sharp focus. Instead of thinking ahead to next summer. He wants his squad to concentrate entirely on the two remaining qualification matches. An away game against the Republic of Ireland in Dublin on November 13.
Followed by a home match in Porto against Armenia on November 16. We can’t talk about the FIFA World Cup 2026 right now, Martinez reminded reporters during a press briefing. Our only focus is qualifying. We want to win these last two games first; only after that will we think about what comes next.
A major reason Portugal is expected to qualify comfortably is the leadership and continued excellence of their captain, Cristiano Ronaldo. Widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time.
FIFA 2026: Ronaldo Nears Record Sixth World Cup Appearance
Ronaldo is now approaching what would be his record-breaking sixth FIFA World Cup 2026 appearance if Portugal advances. His presence both on and off the field remains immensely important, especially with the squad featuring several emerging young stars who benefit from his experience.
Martinez highlighted Ronaldo’s dedication to the national team, saying, No other player in history has more than 200 international caps. He sets an example every day for the rest of the squad. His focus is where it needs to be, and he wants to make sure we finish qualifying strong.
However, the road to qualification has not been completely smooth. Portugal will be missing one of its brightest defensive talents, Nuno Mendes. Martinez did not hesitate to praise Mendes, calling him “probably the best in the world right now at his position.
Mendes’ absence, along with fellow defender Nuno Tavares being unavailable. This means Portugal must rely more heavily on depth and tactical adjustments along the wings. Fortunately for Martinez, the squad is deep, and several key players are returning at the right time.
Joao Cancelo, Vitinha, and Rafael Leao are back in the lineup, bringing both technical skill and versatility. Additionally, young winger Carlos Forbs has earned a place in the squad thanks to standout performances at the club level.
The team is also monitoring the availability of Pedro Neto and others who could add even more attacking energy. Martinez emphasized how Portugal’s football system continues to develop high-level talent every year.
FIFA World Cup: Portugal’s Recent Performances Show Clear Progress
Every season, we see new players in Portuguese football who show they can raise the level of the team, he explained. But we only make changes when there is a real reason, when a player proves they are ready. The progress Portugal has made over the past year has been significant.
The team impressed in the Nations League, earning strong wins against powerful opponents such as Germany and Spain. In World Cup qualifying windows this fall, Portugal collected six points in September and four points in October, reinforcing their position as group leaders.
However, Martinez wants to make sure the team does not become complacent. He pointed out that there are still areas where improvement is needed, especially in maintaining consistency late in matches.
November is always a challenging period, he noted. We need to stay disciplined. Our goal is simple: qualify for the FIFA World Cup. To do that, we need to finish these two matches strongly. We especially need to improve in the final 20 minutes of games, where small mistakes can change results.
Fans in Portugal are understandably excited, but so are supporters around the world, especially in the United States. The FIFA World Cup 2026 is expected to draw enormous crowds. Portugal remains one of the most-followed international teams globally, and Cristiano Ronaldo continues to be a major attraction everywhere he plays.
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FAQS
1. How close is Portugal to qualifying for the FIFA World Cup 2026?
Portugal needs just two more points to officially secure qualification for the FIFA World Cup 2026. They currently lead their qualifying group.
2. Who is Portugal’s head coach during the FIFA World Cup qualifiers?
Roberto Martinez is Portugal’s head coach. He has emphasized staying focused on the remaining qualification matches before celebrating qualification.
3. Which teams will Portugal face next in their qualification campaign?
Portugal will face the Republic of Ireland in Dublin on November 13, followed by a home match against Armenia in Porto on November 16.
4. How many World Cup appearances would this be for Portugal?
If they qualify, the FIFA World Cup 2026 will mark Portugal’s ninth appearance in the tournament’s history.
5. Will Cristiano Ronaldo play in the FIFA World Cup 2026?
If Portugal qualifies, Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to make his record-breaking sixth FIFA World Cup appearance, the most by any player in history.
6. What impact does Ronaldo have on the current Portugal squad?
Ronaldo’s leadership and experience are crucial. With over 200 international caps, he continues to inspire younger players and sets a professional example for the team.
7. Which players are currently unavailable for Portugal?
Defenders Nuno Mendes and Nuno Tavares are unavailable due to injuries. Their absence forces tactical adjustments, particularly along the wings.
8. Which players have recently returned or been added to the squad?
Key players Joao Cancelo, Vitinha, and Rafael Leao have returned. Rising star Carlos Forbs has also earned a call-up after strong club performances.
9. How has Portugal performed recently in international competitions?
Portugal has shown clear progress, performing well in the Nations League and securing solid results in World Cup qualifying matches, including wins over Germany and Spain.
10. What is Coach Martinez’s main focus for the team right now?
Martinez wants the squad to stay disciplined, finish the last two qualifiers strong, and avoid complacency, particularly in maintaining consistency late in matches.