Fans Eager to See Ronaldo's Reaction to Messi's Hat-Trick as Portugal Takes on DR Congo

Cristiano Ronaldo. Photo Credit: Fabrizio Romano

Korede Oluwadare

As Portugal gets ready to start their 2026 FIFA World Cup journey against DR Congo in Houston today, all eyes are on Cristiano Ronaldo. He will be in the starting lineup for what many believe is one of the strongest Portuguese teams in recent years.

Video clips from Portuguese sports channel Canal 11 show Ronaldo and his teammates leaving their hotel, navigating the wet weather, with security and staff ensuring everything went smoothly.

As the team left their hotel under cloudy skies, fans showed their support despite the rain, cheering for the players as they boarded the bus.

This opening match has more drama after Lionel Messi scored an impressive hat-trick in his first game. Fans are keen to see how Ronaldo will respond to Messi's performance as he prepares to lead Portugal against DR Congo.

The confirmed Portugal lineup has Diogo Costa in goal; João Cancelo, Tomás Araújo, Renato Veiga, and Nuno Mendes in defence; João Neves, Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Pedro Neto, and Cristiano Ronaldo in attack.

Ronaldo’s place in the starting lineup has sparked discussion, especially since he is 41 years old. Some critics question if the five-time Ballon d'Or winner can still perform at the top level in what may be his last World Cup. But coach Roberto Martinez has stood by his captain.

In a recent press conference, Martinez said, "Age is only a number. Certainly, in the national team, we can measure exactly what’s happening on the day, and you make the decisions for the next day."

Fans have reacted on social media. One fan, #Toluwase_x, praised Ronaldo on X as "The greatest player of all time." Another fan, #Petrus_Eras, said, "A hat-trick of penalties is all we ask from you, my goat."

Supporter #SthirVichaar mentioned, "Cristiano Ronaldo’s confidence inspires Portugal’s World Cup dream!"

Portugal has what many see as their best squad for a World Cup, strengthened by players who have recently had success.

Bruno Fernandes is in great form, while João Félix and several PSG players, including Vitinha, João Neves, and Nuno Mendes, are energized from their club achievements. This mix of experience and young talent makes the Seleção serious contenders.

DR Congo is back in the World Cup after a long break and will be a tough opponent. But Portugal is expected to start strong. Ronaldo has shared positive thoughts about the team’s potential, agreeing with Martinez's belief that they can go far.