Cristiano Ronaldo will return to playing on US soil after nearly 12 years when Portugal face DR Congo in their FIFA World Cup opener in Houston.

It has been more than 10 years since Cristiano Ronaldo played in the United States. The Athletic explains the background

Football fans are in for another exciting day at the FIFA World Cup 2026, with some of the biggest stars in the game expected to take the field on June 17. The spotlight will be on Lionel Messi and defending champions Argentina national football team as they begin their campaign against Algeria national football team in a Group J clash.

France vs Senegal (12:30 AM), Iraq vs Norway (3:30 AM), Argentina vs Algeria (6:30 AM), Austria vs Jordan (9:30 AM), Portugal vs DR Congo (10:30 PM).

Cristiano Ronaldo was presented with a couple of clear one-on-one opportunities, but the Portuguese captain was unable to make them count.

Cristiano Ronaldo dismissed the fitness concerns ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and confirmed that he is all geared up for the quadrennial event. Ronaldo will play his sixth FIFA WC.

Cristiano Ronaldo looks frustrated against Al Taawoun Abdullah Ahmed/Getty Images The Athletic FC ⚽ is The Athletic’s daily football (or soccer, if you prefer) newsletter. Sign up to receive it directly to your inbox. Hello! Cristiano Ronaldo is the ...