PHOTO: AFP

Portugal skipper Cristiano Ronaldo gazes towards the heavens, as if searching for answers to his struggles ahead of leading his side to North America for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Portugal edged Nigeria 2-1 in their final warm-up match on Wednesday before the global showpiece, but it was far from an ideal night for Ronaldo. Age appears to have caught up with the 41-year-old forward, who failed to convert at least three straightforward chances, raising concerns over whether the iconic striker could end up hindering one of the most talented squads in the world. In just about a week, Portugal will begin their World Cup campaign against DR Congo, with both Portuguese fans and Ronaldo supporters hoping he can come alive when the tournament gets underway and rediscover the big-game magic that has defined his career.