Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior has tipped Portugal as a serious contender for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, citing the presence of Cristiano Ronaldo as a key factor. The tournament, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, kicks off next month.
Ronaldo recently lifted his first major trophy with Al-Nassr, clinching the Saudi Pro League title after a tight battle with Al-Hilal. The Portuguese captain is eager to transfer that success to the international stage.
Portugal have never won the World Cup, and this could be Ronaldo’s last chance to capture the elusive prize. Vinicius believes the 39-year-old can still make a decisive impact this summer.
Speaking on CazeTV via MadridXtra, the Brazilian winger named Portugal among the favorites, emphasizing Ronaldo’s influence. He also highlighted midfielders Vitinha and Joao Neves as standout talents of their generation, and praised Nuno Mendes, Rafael Leao, and Joao Felix as players he has excellent chemistry with.
Portugal were eliminated in the quarter-finals of the 2022 World Cup by Morocco. In the 2026 edition, they will face DR Congo, Uzbekistan, and Colombia in Group K.