The friendly match against Kazakhstan on 20 August 2003 marked the beginning of Cristiano Ronaldo's illustrious journey with the Portugal national team. This match, which ended in a narrow 1-0 victory, seems insignificant, yet it set the stage for Ronaldo to become a transformative figure in Portuguese football.

Since then, Ronaldo has become the all-time leading scorer in international football with 143 goals, shaping the identity and aspirations of a nation that often felt overlooked on the global stage. Joao Aroso, who worked closely with Ronaldo, highlighted how he put Portugal on the world map, stating, "Cristiano allows our small country to be known worldwide for something great."

As Ronaldo approaches his sixth and final World Cup in 2026, questions arise regarding his role in the team. Criticism has grown since the 2022 Qatar World Cup, with some former players like Antonio Simoes asserting that Ronaldo now plays for personal status rather than team success. However, current coach Roberto Martinez defends him, citing 25 goals in 31 games for the Selecao, emphasizing Ronaldo's ongoing high-level performance.

Despite his age, Ronaldo's experience remains invaluable. Abel Xavier noted, "Cristiano understands the big moments better than almost anyone in football," while former goalkeeper Ricardo acknowledged that his physical prowess, although diminished, still poses a threat on the pitch.

Portugal's recent success without Ronaldo, including a 9-0 victory over Luxembourg, has fueled debates about whether the team performs better without their captain. Sofia Oliveira, a sports pundit, suggested Ronaldo might not fit into a starting role if Portugal aims to win the World Cup, raising concerns about the team's preparation for a future without him.

As the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) navigates Ronaldo's legacy and the transition to a post-Ronaldo era, they project record revenues and emphasize their readiness for the future. Pedro Proenca, president of the FPF, acknowledged Ronaldo's enduring impact while ensuring that the federation's operations remain secure.

As the world anticipates Ronaldo's final World Cup journey, the debate continues: Is Portugal better off without their legendary captain, or does his presence still inspire greatness?