Ronaldinho backs Portugal for World Cup if Brazil falters

Ronaldinho. Image via: Buda Mendes/ Getty Images

In a recent chat with reporters, Ronaldinho said he would support Portugal if Brazil fails to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup, citing Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal's current generation. Portugal begins Group K play against DR Congo on June 17, followed by Uzbekistan on June 23 and Colombia on June 28. Brazil opens Group C against Morocco under Carlo Ancelotti. Ronaldinho, retired since 2018, remains active through global appearances and media projects.

Ronaldinho sends a powerful message to Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal

Ronaldinho and Cristiano Ronaldo. Image via: Getty Images

Speaking to beIN SPORTS, Ronaldinho was asked which nation he would support if Brazil failed to win the World Cup. "First of all, I hope Brazil wins it. That's my country and that will never change. But if Brazil can't do it, I'd probably choose Portugal," he said. The former Ballon d'Or winner pointed to Portugal's sustained success and competitive pedigree. Ronaldinho praised the country's football culture and highlighted how close the team has come to major international glory in recent years. Cristiano Ronaldo was central to that answer. "Cristiano is one of the greatest players football has ever seen," Ronaldinho said. "His dedication, discipline and consistency over so many years deserve enormous respect." He went a step further when asked whether he would like Ronaldo to win a World Cup. "Seeing Portugal lift the FIFA World Cup and Cristiano complete his football story on the biggest stage would be something very special for football."

Portugal's World Cup ambitions meet Ronaldinho's admiration

Portugal open their Group K campaign against DR Congo on June 17 before facing Uzbekistan on June 23 and Colombia on June 28. Roberto Martínez's squad enters the tournament after friendly victories over Chile, Nigeria and the United States.

DateMatch June 17, 2026Portugal vs DR Congo June 23, 2026Portugal vs Uzbekistan June 28, 2026Colombia vs Portugal

The roster combines established stars such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, Rúben Dias and Diogo Costa with a younger core that includes Vitinha, Nuno Mendes, João Neves, Pedro Neto and Rafael Leão. Four members of the squad recently helped Paris Saint-Germain secure back-to-back UEFA Champions League titles. ESPN analyst James Tyler recently argued that Ronaldo's role could become Portugal's biggest tactical dilemma. Fernandes produced 29 goals and 26 assists in 88 appearances, while Ronaldo arrives after scoring 28 goals in 30 matches for Al-Nassr during the 2025-26 season. Meanwhile, Brazil begins Group C play against Morocco under Ancelotti. Neymar is unavailable for the opener, while Rodrygo, Éder Militão, Estevão, and Wesley are also absent through injury.

Date & TimeMatchup Sun, 14 Jun Brazil vs Morocco Sat, 20 Jun Brazil vs Haiti Thu, 25 Jun Scotland vs Brazil

Away from the pitch, Ronaldinho continues to occupy a unique place in football. Since retiring in 2018, the 2002 World Cup winner has remained active through exhibition matches, ambassadorial appearances, and media projects, including the recent documentary series Ronaldinho: The One and Only. The next few weeks will determine whether Ronaldinho's preferred backup choice can turn admiration into history. Portugal has never won a World Cup. Ronaldo may not get another chance. Global fans of the football legend are wishing the same.

End of Article