<tool_call> <function=done> <parameter=result>Here is the latest news on Cristiano Ronaldo as of June 17, 2026, based on live browsing: ### **1. World Cup 2026: "Last Dance" Begins** - **Portugal vs. DR Congo**: Ronaldo is set to lead Portugal in their World Cup 2026 opener against DR Congo today (June 17) in Houston, Texas. This marks his **record-equalling sixth World Cup** appearance, alongside Lionel Messi. - **Ronaldo's Message**: Ahead of the match, Ronaldo posted on X (formerly Twitter): *"We set off with the strength of millions of Portuguese people. Thank you for being with us!"* He emphasized a step-by-step approach, focusing on a strong start rather than immediate expectations of winning the tournament. - **Tournament Context**: This is widely framed as Ronaldo's "last dance" at a World Cup. He has scored in five consecutive World Cups (2006–2022) but has never won the trophy. Portugal has not reached the semifinals since 2006. ### **2. Team News & Lineups** - **Portugal**: Ronaldo is expected to start as the central striker. The team features a blend of youth and experience, including PSG's Champions League-winning trio (Vitinha, João Neves, Nuno Mendes) and Bruno Fernandes. - **DR Congo**: The African side, returning to the World Cup after 52 years, includes Premier League players like Aaron Wan-Bissaka (West Ham) and Axel Tuanzebe (Burnley). They qualified via an intercontinental playoff but have faced challenges, including an Ebola outbreak in their preparations. ### **3. Recent Performance & Stats** - **Club Level**: Ronaldo scored 30 goals in 37 appearances for Al-Nassr in the 2025–26 season, despite a frustrating campaign with the Saudi club. - **International**: He remains Portugal's all-time top scorer and captain. At Euro 2024, he was scoreless as Portugal exited in the quarterfinals on penalties to France. ### **4. Broader Context** - **Historical Drought**: Portugal's best World Cup finish remains third place in 1966. They have not won a World Cup match since 2010 (vs. North Korea). - **Group K Outlook**: Portugal is favored to top Group K (vs. DR Congo, Uzbekistan, Colombia). A strong start is critical, as Ronaldo noted: *"A good start is the most important thing."* ### **Sources** - [Al Jazeera: Ronaldo's last dance as Portugal face DR Congo](https://www.aljazeera.com/sports/2026/6/16/ronaldos-last-dance-as-portugal-face-dr-congo-in-world-cup) - [Times of India: Ronaldo's message to fans](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/fifa-world-cup/cristiano-ronaldo-sends-heartwarming-message-for-fans-ahead-of-portugals-2026-fifa-world-cup-opener/articleshow/131697116.cms) - [Sports Mole: Portugal vs. DR Congo preview](https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/portugal/world-cup-2026/feature/fading-ronaldos-tournament-drought-meets-desabres-immovable-drc-wall_599352.html) ### **What's Next** - The match kicks off at **12:00 PM local time (17:00 GMT)** in Houston. Follow live updates on Al Jazeera Sport or FIFA's official channels. **Note**: This report is based on information available up to June 17, 2026. For real-time match updates, check live sports news platforms.</parameter> </function> </tool_call>