Top News

LUWU – The 2026 FIFA World Cup could mark the final appearance of Cristiano Ronaldo with the Portugal national team in the world’s biggest football tournament.

At an age where most players have retired, the megastar known as CR7 continues to serve as both the symbol and leader of a new generation of Portuguese footballers now filled with world-class talent.

Irpan, the Chairperson of the Luwu Election Supervisory Board (Bawaslu), is among those backing the Selecao das Quinas to triumph in this World Cup.

His support is rooted in his long admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo, which began during the player’s early days with Manchester United.

“I’m supporting Portugal. I’ve been a Ronaldo fan since his Manchester United era until now,” said Irpan on Thursday evening, June 4, 2026.

He believes that Ronaldo is no longer just a goal machine or a player with numerous individual records.

Beyond that, the Portuguese captain now plays a crucial role as a mentor and leader for the younger players in the national squad.

Irpan feels that Ronaldo’s vast experience at the highest level of world football is a valuable asset for Portugal as they face the pressure of competing in the World Cup.

“Ronaldo isn’t just a player with great individual stats; this is his moment to truly lead the younger generation in the Portugal national team,” he explained.

Irpan’s confidence in Portugal also stems from the team’s current squad depth and balance.

According to him, Portugal has strong players across all positions, with the midfield being their main strength.

He mentioned names like Vitinha and Bruno Fernandes as two of the best midfielders in the world today.

Both players have consistently performed well for their clubs and are accustomed to dictating the tempo in crucial matches.

“This squad is full of star players. They also have a very solid midfield,” he admitted.

Vitinha has been one of the standout performers in recent seasons, renowned for his ability to control the tempo of play and build attacks.

Meanwhile, Bruno Fernandes is known as a creative playmaker capable of both creating chances and scoring from midfield.

With these two players, Irpan believes Portugal has the perfect blend of creativity, composure, and attacking productivity.

For that reason, he is optimistic that Portugal can go far in the 2026 World Cup.

He even hopes the tournament will serve as a fitting and memorable end to Ronaldo’s illustrious international career.

“I’m optimistic this World Cup will be a sweet one for Ronaldo, a great finale to his career as a football star,” he said.

However, Irpan also acknowledges that Portugal’s path to glory won’t be easy.

He sees Brazil and France as the strongest contenders who could pose serious challenges in the knockout stages.

According to him, both nations boast young talents capable of changing the course of big matches.

Brazil remains a dangerous opponent with their trademark attacking style built on individual skill and creativity.

France, on the other hand, possesses one of the deepest squads in the tournament, featuring a fast and explosive forward line.

“Brazil and France are very strong with their young players. These two teams might become Portugal’s toughest opponents if they meet later in the knockout rounds,” he added.

In Irpan’s view, the 2026 World Cup represents a golden opportunity for Portugal to prove that they are more than just Cristiano Ronaldo’s team.