The Portugal national football team will open its sixth World Cup campaign against the Democratic Republic of the Congo on Wednesday at a closed-roof stadium in Houston, Texas.
The match marks the return of 41-year-old forward Cristiano Ronaldo to competitive action in the United States for the first time since August 2014, following a cleared disciplinary suspension.
>>> VW's Next Hot Hatch Could Be the First Rear-Drive GTI
Preparations for the European side faced minor disruptions after torrential rainfall near Miami forced the cancellation of a Sunday training session, while defender Rúben Dias trained alone due to an unspecified injury.
Democratic Republic of the Congo coach Sébastien Desabre expressed the defensive challenges his squad faces when matching up against the Portuguese forward during set pieces.
"He's probably one of the best players in football history," said Desabre.
"It's a challenge for our defenders and, when it comes to set pieces, he is one of the best."
Portuguese players shared their perspectives on sharing the pitch with the veteran attacker as the tournament begins in southeast Texas.
"I never imagined playing with Cristiano, it's a huge honour to be here with him," said Matheus Nunes, Manchester City utility player.
>>> Tino Livramento to Miss 2026 World Cup with Muscle Injury
"Everyone knows what a great figure he is. If we can win the title for him, it would be something very big."
Midfielder Bruno Fernandes echoed these sentiments regarding his international teammate while also defending the team's recent stay at a private beach hotel during their preparation period.
