Ronaldo’s final World Cup charge clashes with Congo DR’s historic return after 52 years

Cristiano Ronaldo’s final World Cup journey begins with Portugal aiming for the one trophy that has always eluded him. At 41, the Portuguese captain is set to make his sixth FIFA World Cup appearance, extending his record as one of the most experienced players in tournament history.

Ronaldo has already created history by becoming the only male footballer to score in five different FIFA World Cup editions, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018 and 2022. A goal against Congo DR would see him become the first player ever to score in six separate World Cups.

However, the biggest missing piece in Ronaldo’s legendary career remains the World Cup trophy. Despite scoring eight goals across five tournaments, none of those goals has come in the knockout stages. His last World Cup goal came from the penalty spot against Ghana in 2022, while Euro 2024 ended without a goal for the Portuguese superstar.

Portugal’s clash against Congo DR brings two contrasting stories together — a global icon chasing one final piece of history and a nation returning to football’s biggest stage after more than five decades.

The biggest missing piece in Ronaldo’s legendary career remains the World Cup trophy. Pic: Instagram

Top 7 facts around CR7’s last World Cup

A Record Sixth World Cup Campaign: Ronaldo is set to become one of the very few players to feature in six FIFA World Cups, alongside Lionel Messi, Luka Modric and Guillermo Ochoa.

Five World Cups, Five Scoring Editions: Ronaldo is the only male footballer to score in five different FIFA World Cup tournaments.

Still Delivering in Front of Goal: Despite entering the twilight years of his career, Ronaldo continues to maintain impressive scoring numbers at club and international level.

The Knockout Goal That Has Eluded Him: Ronaldo has scored eight World Cup goals but is yet to find the net in a knockout-stage match.

The One Trophy Missing: Ronaldo has won the UEFA European Championship (2016) and UEFA Nations League titles (2019 and 2025), but the FIFA World Cup remains missing from his collection.

A First-Ever Meeting: Portugal and Congo DR will face each other for the first time in international football history.

Congo DR’s Historic Return: Congo DR will make only their second FIFA World Cup appearance, returning after 52 years. Their previous appearance came in 1974 as Zaire.

Match Facts: Portugal vs Congo DR
Venue: Houston Stadium
Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026 (Group K)

Key Facts to Know Before the Clash:

Portugal enter the tournament as reigning UEFA Nations League champions.

Congo DR qualified through the inter-confederation playoffs, defeating Jamaica 1-0 after extra time.

Congo DR’s attacking threats include Cédric Bakambu and Yoane Wissa.

Portugal will rely on Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva and their talented squad to lead their campaign.

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