Cristiano Ronaldo Sidelined for Portugal’s Matches Against USMNT and Mexico

Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo will miss his team’s upcoming friendly matches against Mexico and the United States due to a right hamstring injury, as confirmed on March 20, 2026. ESPN and The New York Times reported the news.

Injury Details and Recovery Timeline

The 41-year-old sustained the muscular problem while playing for Al Nassr on February 28th. He has been undergoing treatment in Madrid for the past two weeks, but has not recovered sufficiently to participate in the matches. Portugal coach Roberto Martínez reassured fans that Ronaldo is not at risk of missing the World Cup, stating the injury is minor and he expects a return in “a week or two.”

Match Schedule

Portugal will face Mexico at the renovated Azteca Stadium on March 28th and then travel to Atlanta, Georgia, to play against the United States on March 31st. ESPN reports Ronaldo has not played in the U.S. Since 2014, when Real Madrid was on a preseason tour.

Portugal’s Squad

Roberto Martínez announced a 27-man squad for the friendlies, excluding Ronaldo. Key players include Nuno Mendes, Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes, Rafael Leão, and Pedro Neto.

World Cup Preparations

Portugal will begin its World Cup campaign on June 17th in Houston against a winner of this month’s playoff tournament. The team is likewise scheduled to face Uzbekistan and Colombia in Group K. The New York Times notes that Ronaldo’s side will face either New Caledonia, Jamaica or DR Congo in their opening game.

Ronaldo’s Recent Activity

Ronaldo last played for Portugal on November 16, 2025, in a 9-1 victory over Armenia, but was sidelined due to suspension. He also made a public appearance in the U.S. Last November as a guest at a White House dinner hosted by President Donald Trump for Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.