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Former Portugal team official Carlos Godinho has voiced his strong wish to see Cristiano Ronaldo conclude his illustrious international career by winning the World Cup. With the Al-Nassr forward turning 41 ahead of the 2026 edition, those close to the Selecao feel this may be the final chance for the iconic striker to capture the last major trophy missing from his collection.

The dream of a perfect farewell

As Ronaldo prepares to lead Portugal into his sixth World Cup at the age of 41, the emotional anticipation surrounding his possible retirement is growing within the national team. Former Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) national team director Godinho expressed his heartfelt hope that the Al-Nassr star can sign off at the pinnacle of the sport, finally securing the only title that has eluded him during his record-breaking career.

Discussing the future of the veteran forward, Godinho admitted that while Ronaldo’s career longevity is extraordinary, time ultimately catches up with everyone. “Let’s hope he gets the chance to retire – I don’t know when, but the body doesn’t last forever – with a title of this significance,” he told Lusa. “But it won’t be easy, either for Portugal or other European sides. The tournament will be played across three countries, with many players who already have heavy workloads. Those taking part must know how to manage these challenges, especially given the travel distances involved.”

The ultimate test in North America

The 2026 World Cup, which will be staged across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is expected to be one of the most demanding tournaments ever due to travel and climate variations. Godinho cautioned that Portugal must be fully prepared to deal with the physical exhaustion players will face after long domestic seasons. He pointed out that the shift to the Americas could place European teams at a disadvantage compared to recent competitions held closer to the continent.

“The World Cup will be tough because of the fatigue players will carry,” Godinho added. “The change in continent is a disadvantage, just as it will be for teams from other regions. The strongest sides have players involved in top-level club competitions, and they arrive tired, further affected by long flights, time-zone shifts, and climate differences—all of which impact performance. Proper preparation is essential. Playing in the United States is far more challenging than in Germany.”

Looking back on Ronaldo’s incredible journey

Godinho, who served within the FPF for five decades, witnessed Ronaldo’s entire international story unfold. He remembered the early days in 2003 when a teenage Ronaldo joined the national squad alongside legends like Luis Figo, Rui Costa, and Fernando Couto. According to Godinho, that environment played a crucial role in developing the “winning mentality” that has defined Ronaldo’s 20-year reign at the top level.

“It was never difficult to work with Cristiano. He made his debut at 18 against Kazakhstan, but he had a group around him that helped him grasp the magnitude of where he was,” Godinho recalled. He further noted that the youngster was always “exceptional” and quick to absorb feedback, even when faced with some “hard conversations” from senior teammates in the dressing room.

The road to the 2026 final

Portugal’s mission for World Cup success will begin in Group K, where they open against the Democratic Republic of Congo on June 17 in Houston. While a win in their first match is vital to build rhythm, Godinho reminded supporters that during Euro 2016, Portugal’s slow start did not stop them from going all the way. After their opener, the Selecao will face Uzbekistan and Colombia as they look to progress beyond the group stage.

“The first match is always crucial,” Godinho said. “Everything depends on mindset, fatigue, and attitude, but I am confident that with our players and organisational strength, we can reach far. However, declaring that we will win right now would be premature.” For now, the focus remains firmly on 2026, and the dream is alive—to see Cristiano Ronaldo lift the World Cup trophy before his remarkable body finally calls time on an extraordinary career.