Overview
- Portugal face Mexico at the renovated Estadio Azteca on Saturday without Cristiano Ronaldo, who was left off the March roster.
- The 41-year-old suffered a right hamstring injury on February 28 with Al‑Nassr, traveled to Spain for treatment, then returned to Saudi Arabia to continue rehab and posted, "Good to be back."
- Head coach Roberto Martínez called it a minor muscle issue with a one‑to‑two‑week timeline, and reports suggest Al‑Nassr’s April 3 fixture could be his first game back if recovery stays on track.
- Ronaldo’s absence has shaped the fan experience in Mexico, with a reported seventh‑minute chant planned in his honor and resale ticket prices dropping after his non‑availability was confirmed.
- A separate FIFA decision leaves two games of a three‑match ban suspended on a one‑year probation, which would activate only if he commits a similar offense during the probation period.