At 41, Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to make his final appearance in a major international competition.
Portugal’s schedule includes two matches in March and a final warm-up in June, all part of a North America-focused preparation plan.
Injury concern ahead of March window
Ronaldo suffered a hamstring injury in early March while playing for Al-Nassr. Initial reports suggested a recovery timeline of two to four weeks.
That timeline puts his availability for the March international window in doubt.
There is internal optimism that he could return in time, but his status remains uncertain.
Mexico friendly opens schedule
Portugal’s first match is against Mexico on March 28 at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
- Date: March 28, 2026
- Time: 9:00 PM ET
- Venue: Estadio Azteca (Estadio Banorte), Mexico City
- Competition: International Friendly
The match marks the reopening of the stadium following renovations and will be Ronaldo’s first appearance at the venue. Portugal is expected to field a full-strength squad.
United States match follows
Portugal will then face the United States on March 31 in Atlanta.
- Date: March 31, 2026
- Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta
- Competition: International Friendly
The fixture continues Portugal’s preparation within the World Cup host region.
Recovering and ready to watch the game today. Let's go, Al Nassr! 🟡🔵 pic.twitter.com/o7b9dD8MTN
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) March 7, 2026
Final tune-up before the tournament
Portugal has one additional friendly scheduled before the World Cup:
- Date: June 6, 2026
- Opponent: Chile (pending confirmation)
- Venue: To be determined
- Competition: International Friendly
This match will serve as the final adjustment before the tournament begins.
World Cup group stage schedule
Portugal’s group-stage matches are set:
- June 17: vs intercontinental playoff winner — Houston
- June 23: vs Uzbekistan — Houston
- June 27: vs Colombia — Miami
The team has selected the United States as its training base, aligning preparation with tournament conditions.
Final stretch
The March friendlies are central to Portugal’s preparation.
Ronaldo’s availability remains the key variable. If he recovers in time, he is expected to rejoin the squad and retain a leading role.
