League: EPL Sport: Soccer Country: England Category: Playoffs

Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, starts for Portugal against DR Congo

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 17, 2026, 4:30 PM

Last updated Jun 17, 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, starts for Portugal against DR Congo

Summary

Cristiano Ronaldo has started for Portugal at age 41 as they face DR Congo in their World Cup opener on June 17, 2026. This selection makes Ronaldo the fourth-oldest player to participate in a World Cup, surpassing Northern Ireland's Pat Jennings. Essam El Hadary holds the record as the oldest player at 45 years, 161 days, set at the 2018 World Cup. Ronaldo's participation follows a notable career that includes competing in five World Cups. The match is currently ongoing as Portugal begins their campaign in Group K.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•Ronaldo selected to start against DR Congo
•Portugal's World Cup opener in Group K
•Ronaldo is the fourth-oldest World Cup player
•Previous record held by Essam El Hadary
•Match in progress on June 17, 2026

Latest Updates

4:30 PMYahoo Sports — Oldest players to appear at the World Cup as 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo starts for Portugal

What they're saying

"
Is Cristiano Ronaldo the oldest player to ever appear at the World Cup? Many football fans across the planet are asking exactly that after Roberto Martinez selected the former Manchester United and Real Madrid talisman to start against DR Congo at the age of 41 – as Portugal begin their World Cup campaign in Group K. Incidentally, there are actually three players older than Ronaldo to have appeared at the World Cup.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Manchester United Real Madrid Atletico Madrid EPL Soccer