Will Cristiano Ronaldo play tonight for Portugal vs Ireland in 2026 World Cup qualifiers?

Rajarshi has been part of Khel Now since 2022, and he covers world football.

Published at :November 13, 2025 at 10:33 PM

Modified at :November 13, 2025 at 10:33 PM

(Courtesy : Getty Images)

Will Cristiano Ronaldo be back in action when Selecao play Ireland tonight?

Tonight, Portugal will play Ireland in a crucial World Cup qualifying match. The Portuguese side have a strong lead in Group F of the qualifiers thus far. A victory on the day would guarantee their spot in the major competition the next year.

In an attempt to make a record-breaking sixth World Cup appearance in 2026, Cristiano Ronaldo should be more than willing to play in Portugal’s pivotal World Cup qualifying match against Ireland.

In addition to being crucial to Portugal’s qualifying, this game will garner significant attention due to Ronaldo’s continued quest for international achievements, his current form, and what the iconic striker may do in the future.

Will Ronaldo play tonight?

Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal UEFA Nations League — MUNICH, GERMANY – JUNE 08: Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal lifts the UEFA Nations League trophy after the UEFA Nations League 2025 final match between Portugal and Spain at Munich Football Arena on June 08, 2025 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images)

Portugal team’s star Cristiano Ronaldo is anticipated to start against Ireland in Dublin. He maintains his focus, saying that helping Portugal qualify is more important to him than focusing on personal accomplishments or diversions.

Cristiano Ronaldo continues to give outstanding performances for both club and country despite being 40 years old. He has participated in 33 games thus far in 2025, scoring 28 goals and dishing out two assists, proving his durability as a forward.

Objetivo: Qualificação 🦾 #FazHistória | #WCQ pic.twitter.com/5zGO5cGOOG
— Portugal (@selecaoportugal) November 12, 2025

His ability to score goals is crucial for Portugal. He continues to be their top international scorer. He recently scored his 143rd goal for his country.

His recent match ratings show that he consistently contributes at a high level, with pivotal moments in both the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and the most recent UEFA Nations League.

Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to retire from international football following the 2026 World Cup, ending a significant period with Portugal.

He is still under contract at Al Nassr. Once he retires from the national team, it is anticipated that he will devote the rest of his career to club football.

Will Cristiano Ronaldo play tonight?

Yes, he will play tonight.

Have Portugal qualified for the 2026 World Cup?

No, but they will qualify tonight if they win against Ireland.

Where do Portugal stand in group F?

They are first in the group.

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Rajarshi Shukla

After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.