Portugal vs DR Congo: Cristiano Ronaldo makes ultimate World Cup history at age 41

17.06.26 FT World Cup

Portugal

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DR Congo

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Cristiano Ronaldo captained Portugal against DR Congo in their World Cup 2026 opener taking the pitch to shatter massive football milestones.

The iconic attacker has officially become the first Portuguese player to feature in six distinct editions of international football's premier competition. This monumental journey began two decades ago on German soil in 2006.

His relentless dedication has seen him consistently lead his nation's frontline through the 2010, 2014, 2018 and 2022 campaigns bringing his unparalleled experience to the current North American showpiece.

Defying physical limitations

By walking out with the starting eleven, the veteran achieved a staggering physical milestone. At exactly 41 year and 132 day old, he is now the oldest outfield player to ever start a match at the finals.

This longevity shatters benchmarks set by previous generations proving his extraordinary commitment to elite conditioning and his enduring importance to the national tactical setup.

The hunt for ultimate scoring glory

The all-time leading goalscorer in men's international football is currently chasing another domestic and global milestone.

He sits just one strike away from matching the late Eusebio’s absolute record of nine World Cup goals for A Selecao. Furthermore, finding the back of the net in this tournament would make him the only individual to ever score in six different World Cups allowing him to break his current tie with long-time rival Lionel Messi, who has scored in five.

Chasing a 1994 benchmark

As he targets ultimate international glory to complement his Euro 2016 and Nations League triumphs, his current age-defying run draws a fascinating historical parallel to Cameroonian icon Roger Milla.

During the 1994 tournament which was also hosted in the United States, Milla famously became the oldest goalscorer in the competition's history at 42 years and 39 days old. With the current matches unfolding on the very same American soil, the stage is perfectly set for the Portuguese captain to challenge Milla's legendary benchmark.

Khaled Hegazy |

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Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

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DR Congo

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