Ronaldo backs Portugal to shine at World Cup

Cristiano Ronaldo is feeling "very positive" as he departs with the Portuguese national team for their World Cup base camp in Palm Beach, Florida. The veteran forward expressed strong hope for the team's performance, highlighting the squad's quality and potential to bring joy to the Portuguese people.

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We’re approaching this competition with a lot of hope.

"We're approaching this competition with a lot of hope," Ronaldo said on Friday. "The preparation has been very good, tiring, because we have worked hard." He assured he is "physically good" and believes the team will perform well.

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The preparation has been very good, tiring, because we have worked hard.

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner emphasized the importance of starting the tournament strongly, aiming to finish top of their group and then proceed "one match at a time." He described the current generation of players as "very good."

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I am very positive, I believe things will go well and that we will put in a good performance.

Portugal, who finished third in the 1966 World Cup and reached the quarter-finals in Qatar, will begin their campaign on June 17 in Houston against the Democratic Republic of Congo. They will also face Uzbekistan and Colombia in Group K. At 41, Ronaldo is set to make a record sixth World Cup appearance, though some express concerns his presence might hinder the team's potential.

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It’s a very good generation… which will bring a lot of joy to the Portuguese people.