“The GOAT last dance”- Fans explode as Cristiano Ronaldo named in Portugal World Cup squad as he gears up for his final FIFA World Cup appearance

Portugal have officially announced their final squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026, and the biggest talking point is the inclusion of legendary forward Cristiano Ronaldo. At 41 years old, Ronaldo is preparing for what is expected to be his sixth and final World Cup appearance. The squad was confirmed by manager Roberto Martinez as Portugal aim to win football’s biggest prize for the first time in history.

Portugal head into the tournament as one of the strongest teams in the competition. The squad includes experienced stars like Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, and Ruben Dias, along with young talents such as Joao Neves and Vitinha. However, most fans online were focused on Ronaldo’s selection, with many emotional reactions flooding social media after the squad reveal ahead of matches against DR Congo, Uzbekistan, and Colombia.

Fans celebrate Cristiano Ronaldo’s inclusion in Portugal’s World Cup squad

Fans across social media quickly reacted after Cristiano Ronaldo’s name appeared in Portugal’s final squad list. Many supporters believe the veteran forward still has one last magical tournament left in him despite his age.

One fan said, “They can’t do it without him.” Another said, “Ronaldo hitting his 6th World Cup like it’s a subscription service he refuses to cancel. Portugal’s group stage just got auto-renewed with premium aura. SIUUU from another dimension…”

One wrote, “This is going to be his last dance at the World Cup. He is so confident that he will win it for Portugal this last time”.

Another fan posted, “6 World Cups is insane longevity Most players are retired by then, legend status confirmed.” One supporter wrote, “From 2006 to 2026… An entire football generation grew up watching Cristiano Ronaldo at the World Cup”

Ronaldo first played at the World Cup in 2006 and has remained one of football’s biggest stars for two decades. Although Portugal won the UEFA Euro 2016 title, the World Cup trophy has always escaped Ronaldo and his national team.

Portugal reached the quarter-finals in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar but suffered a shocking defeat against Morocco. This time, the squad looks balanced and full of quality in every department. Goalkeeper Diogo Costa is expected to lead from the back, while attackers like Rafael Leao and Goncalo Ramos add pace and firepower in attack.

Now, all eyes will be on Ronaldo and Portugal as they begin another World Cup journey. Fans will be hoping the legendary forward can finally lift the trophy before ending his international career.




Stay updated with the latest IPL Live Score Score, IPL news on Times of India. Follow the IPL Schedule, check the IPL Points Table, and track the race for the IPL Orange Cap and IPL Purple Cap.