Fernandes backs Ronaldo influence as Portugal build toward 2026
Bruno Fernandes has firmly defended Cristiano Ronaldo’s role with Portugal, stressing that the captain continues to add value as the national team prepares for the 2026 World Cup after a strong qualifying campaign.
The debate intensified after Portugal demolished Armenia 9-1 in a World Cup qualifier during Ronaldo’s suspension, a result some used to argue the side plays better without him. Fernandes rejected that view, pointing to Ronaldo’s presence in the penalty area and his ability to shape games even when he is not the focal point.
Ronaldo, now 40, remains the leading men’s international goalscorer with 143 goals in 226 appearances since his debut in 2003. After being benched during the 2022 World Cup, his prolific form at Al Nassr has earned him a return to the starting lineup under Roberto Martínez, who replaced Fernando Santos.
Portugal’s recent qualifiers have carried an air of confidence, with packed stadiums and an attacking rhythm driven by fluid movement behind the striker. Fernandes has often operated between the lines, while wide players stretch defenses and create space that Ronaldo continues to exploit.
Fernandes highlighted how Ronaldo attracts multiple defenders, opening channels for runners from midfield and wide areas. He also noted the tactical contrast when Gonçalo Ramos leads the line, offering aggressive pressing and diagonal movement, or when Bernardo Silva operates as a number 10 to control possession.
During qualification, Portugal scored 20 goals in six matches, with Ronaldo contributing five. Many came from close range, where his positioning and timing remain decisive, even as others around him share the creative burden.
As matches progressed, Portugal often tightened control through midfield, using Fernandes’ passing range and Silva’s ball retention to manage tempo. The balance between control and directness has become a defining feature under Martínez.
Portugal’s campaign included tense moments, but the side closed out games with authority, conceding seven goals overall and showing resilience when momentum briefly shifted against them.
Fresh from winning the UEFA Nations League by beating Euro 2024 champions Spain, Portugal heads toward 2026 with high expectations. Fernandes has made clear that individual roles come second to collective success, while for Ronaldo, the next World Cup represents a final chance to complete a career defined by records and relentless ambition.