Cristiano Ronaldo’s Hamstring Injury: Impact on Portugal’s World Cup Preparations
A hamstring injury has sidelined Cristiano Ronaldo, forcing the 41-year-traditional to miss Portugal’s upcoming friendly matches against Mexico and the United States. The injury occurred on February 28th during an Al-Nassr match against Al-Fayha, where he was substituted in the 81st minute.
Ronaldo’s Absence and Portugal’s Squad
Portugal coach Roberto Martínez has confirmed Ronaldo will not be included in the squad for the March 28th game against Mexico in Mexico City and the April 1st match against the United States in Atlanta. Despite the injury, Martínez has reassured fans that Ronaldo’s World Cup participation is not in jeopardy, describing the injury as “minor” and expecting a return in “a week or two.”
The Portuguese squad for the friendlies includes goalkeepers Diogo Costa, José Sá, and Rui Silva. Defenders Matheus Nunes, Diogo Dalot, João Cancelo, Nuno Mendes, Gonçalo Inácio, Renato Veiga, António Silva, and Tomás Araújo have also been selected. The midfield will feature Rúben Neves, Samú Costa, Mateus Fernandes, João Neves, Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes, and Rodrigo Mora. Forwards include Ricardo Horta, Pedro Gonçalves, João Félix, Francisco Trincão, Francisco Conceição, Rafael Leão, Pedro Neto, Gonçalo Guedes, and Gonçalo Ramos.
The Road to the 2026 World Cup & Broadcast Details
These friendlies serve as crucial preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which begins in June. FOX Sports will broadcast all 104 matches live across FOX (70) and FS1 (34), with streaming available on FOX One and the FOX Sports App. A record 40 matches will be aired in prime time.
USA’s 2026 World Cup Schedule
The United States will face Paraguay on June 12th in Los Angeles, Australia on June 19th in Seattle, and a UEFA Playoff C winner (Slovakia, Kosovo, Türkiye, or Romania) on June 25th, also in Los Angeles.
FAQ
Q: How serious is Cristiano Ronaldo’s injury?
A: It’s a hamstring injury described as “minor” by coach Roberto Martínez, with an expected recovery time of one to two weeks.
Q: Will Ronaldo be fit for the World Cup?
A: Roberto Martínez believes Ronaldo is not in danger of missing the World Cup.
Q: Where can I watch the 2026 World Cup?
A: All 104 matches will be broadcast live on FOX and FS1, and streamed on FOX One and the FOX Sports App.
Q: When does the USA play in the 2026 World Cup?
A: The USA plays Paraguay on June 12th, Australia on June 19th, and a UEFA Playoff C winner on June 25th.
Did you know? Cristiano Ronaldo holds the record for the most goals in men’s international soccer, with 143 goals for Portugal.
Stay updated with the latest World Cup news and schedules on FOX Sports.
