Nani Highlights Collective Effort for Ronaldo's World Cup Ambition with Portugal

Former Portugal international Nani has articulated a clear vision for the national team's path to success, particularly concerning the role of captain Cristiano RonaldoPlayer·Cristiano Ronaldo. Speaking recently, Nani emphasized that while Ronaldo possesses the ability to decide a game, his effectiveness is amplified by the collective effort of his teammates.

"He can decide a game, but players need to run for him," Nani stated, as reported by The New York Times. This sentiment echoes earlier comments from November 2025, where Nani, a former teammate of Ronaldo at Manchester United and with Portugal, suggested that a 2026 FIFA World Cup victory would provide a "perfect end" to Ronaldo's illustrious career. He stressed that Ronaldo "needs the team to help" and "needs to be connected with the team" to achieve this monumental goal.

Nani reiterated in June 2026 that Ronaldo's presence on the pitch serves as a significant inspiration, prompting other players "to work a little harder for him, for the team, and for the national side." He highlighted the Portugal squad's readiness to "push beyond their limits" and "give a little bit more" to help Ronaldo secure the World Cup, which Nani described as Ronaldo's ultimate dream. The "spirit of sacrifice" that has defined Ronaldo's career is now mirrored by his teammates, according to Nani.

At 41 years old, Cristiano RonaldoPlayer·Cristiano Ronaldo continues to defy expectations. He extended his contract with Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr in June 2025, committing until June 2027. During the 2025/26 Saudi Pro League season, Ronaldo made 30 appearances, scoring 28 goals and providing 2 assists. He remains in pursuit of the remarkable milestone of 1,000 career goals and is set to captain Portugal at the 2026 FIFA World CupCompetition·FIFA World Cup, having already become the first player to score in six World Cups.

Portugal's national team has demonstrated strong form leading into the tournament. They secured direct qualification for the 2026 FIFA World CupCompetition·FIFA World Cup by winning Group F in UEFA World Cup qualifying, culminating in a decisive 9-1 victory over ArmeniaTeam·Armenia in November 2025. The team also claimed the 2025 UEFA Nations League title, defeating Spain 5-3 on penalties in the final. In the 2026 World Cup group stage, Portugal navigated Group K with a 1-1 draw against DR CongoTeam·DR Congo, a commanding 5-0 win over UzbekistanTeam·Uzbekistan, and a 0-0 draw against Colombia. These results saw them qualify for the Round of 32 as Group K runners-up, where they are scheduled to face CroatiaTeam·Croatia.

Nani also singled out Manchester UnitedTeam·Manchester United midfielder Bruno FernandesPlayer·Bruno Fernandes for praise, describing his mentality and desire to win as "crucial factors for Portugal." The former winger, who at 39 came out of retirement in January 2026 to sign a one-year deal with FC Aktobe in Kazakhstan, believes the current Portugal squad possesses a "perfect balance between experience and young talent," a blend he sees as vital for their World Cup aspirations.