After missing Portugal’s recent friendlies in March, Cristiano Ronaldo will have one final opportunity to wear the national team colors before the 2026 World Cup begins.
“The national team has already determined its opponent for the last preparation match before the 2026 World Cup. Portugal will face Nigeria on June 10,” the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) officially confirmed on Thursday.
While there is no venue confirmed, reports indicate that the match is set to take place at the Municipal Stadium of Leiria. Additionally, the federation confirmed that just days earlier, Portugal will face Chile on June 6 at the Jamor National Stadium in Lisbon.
A final tune-up for Cristiano
Cristiano Ronaldo was a notable absentee during the March FIFA window, as he was in the final stages of recovery from a hamstring injury sustained while playing for Al Nassr. However, the striker is set to return to action after Jorge Jesus provided a positive injury update on Ronaldo.
Getting ready 💪🏽 pic.twitter.com/QPy2o0yllp
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) April 2, 2026
Provided there are no further setbacks, the legendary forward is expected to lead the team in these home farewell matches before they depart for North America.
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In his absence, Roberto Martinez’s squad recorded mixed results during its tour of the host nations, playing out a scoreless draw against Mexico at the Estadio Azteca and securing a 2–0 victory over the United States at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Repeating the 2022 formula
Ahead of the 2022 Qatar World Cup, the Portuguese national team followed a similar preparation plan by scheduling a friendly against Nigeria just days before the tournament’s kickoff. The two sides met on November 17, 2022—only three days before the World Cup officially began on November 20.
On that occasion, Portugal secured a dominant 4–0 victory at the Estadio Jose Alvalade, featuring a brace from Bruno Fernandes and goals from Goncalo Ramos and Joao Mario. Notably, Cristiano Ronaldo was left out of then-manager Fernando Santos’ squad for that match due to a bout of gastritis.
