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Portugal to Reveal World Cup Squad Ahead of Mexico, USMNT Friendlies
Cristiano Ronaldo's injury status remains uncertain as coach Roberto Martínez prepares to name Portugal's roster.
Published on Mar. 9, 2026
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The Portuguese Football Federation has confirmed that coach Roberto Martínez will announce Portugal's squad for upcoming friendlies against Mexico and the USMNT on March 20. This leaves Cristiano Ronaldo, who recently suffered a hamstring injury, with less than two weeks to recover and prove his fitness to the national team coach before the squad is revealed.
Why it matters
Ronaldo's potential inclusion or exclusion from the Portugal squad will be closely watched, as the 41-year-old superstar is widely expected to retire from international duty after the 2026 World Cup. The March friendlies represent one of the final opportunities for Martínez to evaluate his options before the tournament.
The details
Portugal secured their place at the 2026 World Cup by topping their UEFA qualifying group. The team has organized a North American tour for the March international break, opening with a match against Mexico on March 28 at Estadio Azteca Banorte, followed by a game against the USMNT on March 31 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Portugal will then face Chile in a friendly on June 6 before their World Cup group stage debut on June 17.
- Martínez will announce Portugal's squad on Friday, March 20.
- Portugal will play Mexico on Saturday, March 28.
- Portugal will play the USMNT on Tuesday, March 31.
- Portugal will face Chile on June 6.
- Portugal's World Cup group stage debut is on June 17.
The players
Roberto Martínez
The head coach of the Portugal national team.
Cristiano Ronaldo
A 41-year-old Portuguese professional footballer who plays as a forward for Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr and the Portugal national team.
What they’re saying
“Recovering and ready to watch the game today. Let's go, Al Nassr!”
— Cristiano Ronaldo (Instagram)
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
Cristiano Ronaldo's injury status will be a major storyline leading up to the announcement of Portugal's squad for the upcoming friendlies against Mexico and the USMNT. The 41-year-old superstar's potential inclusion or exclusion could have significant implications for his international career and Portugal's preparations for the 2026 World Cup.
