Roberto Martinez refuses to think about Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal in the 2026 World Cup

Portugal National Soccer Team is closing in on a ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada - but head coach Roberto Martinez wants one thing made crystal clear: no one inside the squad is talking about the World Cup yet.

Despite sitting at the top of their qualifying group and being just two points away from officially punching their ticket to what would be the nation's ninth World Cup, Martinez says the focus is only on the final two qualifiers: a road match in Dublin against the Republic of Ireland on November 13, followed by a home finale in Porto against Armenia on November 16.

"We can't talk about the World Cup," Martinez told reporters. "The focus is on qualifying. We want to win both games and then think about the future."

Ronaldo leads a talented squad with eyes only on November

Portugal , led by superstar captain Cristiano Ronaldo - one of the greatest footballers ever - is expected to reach the 2026 tournament, which would mark his record-extending sixth World Cup appearance. His experience and leadership remain invaluable to a squad filled with dynamic young talent.

Martinez praised Ronaldo 's mentality: "There is no other player with more than 200 caps. He is an example to the group... and is very focused on qualifying in November." Meanwhile, there are some obstacles to solve - and depth to handle them.

Portugal will be without star defender Nuno Mendes , whom Martinez called "probably the best in the world right now" at his position. With Mendes and Tavares unavailable, the coach acknowledged the importance of finding the right tactical balance on the flanks.

Martinez sees a positive competitive environment

João Cancelo, Vitinha, and Rafael Leão are back in the picture. Young winger Carlos Forbs earned his chance after standout form. Potential reinforcements like Pedro Neto depending on club availability. "Every year, players appear in Portuguese football who can add quality," Martinez said. "But for that, you have to have a reason to make changes."

Portugal has already enjoyed impressive moments in 2024-25, including Nations League victories over Germany and Spain and strong performances in recent qualifying windows (six points in September and four in October). But Martinez insists the job remains unfinished:

"November is always a difficult stage. Even so, our focus is on qualifying for the World Cup ... We have to improve, especially in the final 20 minutes of games." Fans across Portugal - and across the United States , where the national team will draw huge attention in 2026 - are eager to see Ronaldo and his golden supporting cast on the world's biggest stage next summer. But until the spot is officially clinched, Martinez won't let anyone get ahead of themselves: