Former Portugal international Ricardo Quaresma has expressed strong confidence that the national team can withstand the intense pressure at the upcoming World Cup to deliver glory for record goalscorer Cristiano Ronaldo.
Ronaldo's Final World Cup Campaign
Despite qualifying at the top of their group for this year's tournament, Portugal will continue to rely heavily on the inspirational presence of 41-year-old Ronaldo at his sixth World Cup finals. The team suffered a disappointing quarter-final exit against Morocco at Qatar 2022, adding extra motivation for redemption in this campaign.
Recent Success Building Confidence
Speaking at Puma's 2026 FIFA World Cup kit launch event in New York, Quaresma highlighted how Portugal's recent trophy achievements have created crucial momentum. 'They won the Nations League, so that's what I'm saying. We have more will to win because Cristiano is there,' Quaresma stated emphatically.
'It's his last World Cup and they want Cristiano to win that title,' the former winger added, underscoring the emotional significance of this tournament for the legendary forward.
High Expectations Based on Quality
Quaresma acknowledged the substantial pressure surrounding Portugal's campaign but argued it's justified by the squad's capabilities. 'The expectation is high, it's very high, because they have quality for that,' he explained. 'Because if they didn't have it, we wouldn't have had that whole expectation.'
The former teammate, who celebrated Portugal's Euro 2016 triumph alongside Ronaldo, believes the current generation possesses both the talent and determination required for World Cup success.
Legacy and Inspiration for Future Generations
Reflecting on his international career and what a World Cup victory would mean, Quaresma shared: 'I am very proud to see the players who played with me win such an important title for our country. I think it is the dream of all of us to win a World Cup.'
He emphasized the significance of building upon previous achievements: 'We have already won a European title and now to win a World Cup is the goal. I think it is the cherry on top of the cake because we always dreamed of it, but we never got it.'
Quaresma praised how 'this generation has given a lot of hope to our country' through their performances and potential.
Puma Kit Launch Event
The comments came during Puma's unveiling of 11 national team kits for the 2026 World Cup, where Quaresma appeared alongside fellow former footballers El-Hadji Diouf and Asamoah Gyan. The event showcased Portugal's new tournament attire as part of the global sportswear brand's preparations for the upcoming competition.
As Portugal prepares for their World Cup campaign, Quaresma's insights highlight both the emotional weight of Ronaldo's final tournament appearance and the genuine belief within Portuguese football circles that this talented squad can overcome pressure to achieve the ultimate prize.
