SURABAYA – The excitement for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is starting to build ahead of the kickoff of the world’s biggest football tournament, which will take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
This edition will be the largest in history, featuring 48 participating nations for the very first time.
That same enthusiasm is shared by Persebaya Surabaya’s main defender, Risto Mitrevski. The North Macedonian player revealed that he plans to watch the 2026 World Cup live when the Super League enters its mid-season break.
“I will watch the World Cup. I support Portugal. I support Cristiano Ronaldo. We’ll see how it goes,” said Risto Mitrevski on Saturday (May 30, 2026).
Risto’s support goes to the Portugal national team, which once again comes into the tournament with a star-studded and experienced squad.
At the 2026 World Cup, Portugal has been drawn in Group K alongside DR Congo, Uzbekistan, and Colombia.
Although Portugal is known as one of Europe’s football powerhouses, they have never won a World Cup title. Their best finishes were third place in 1966 and fourth place in 2006.
Portugal arrives at this year’s tournament with a blend of seasoned veterans and a golden generation of talent, still led by their captain, Cristiano Ronaldo.
Portugal’s Key Players at the 2026 World Cup
Portugal will face a tough challenge from Colombia, a team with more extensive World Cup experience.
Colombia’s best achievement was reaching the quarterfinals at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
Meanwhile, Uzbekistan will make history by appearing for the first time in the final round of the World Cup.
DR Congo also returns to the global stage, having last participated in 1974 when it was still known as Zaire.
Group K Line-up for the 2026 World Cup
Besides Portugal, Risto admitted that he will also pay special attention to the Croatia national team, which is set to compete in the 2026 World Cup as well.
“And of course, Croatia too. So, that’s it,” Risto added.
Croatia has been placed in Group L alongside England, Ghana, and Panama.
Group L for the 2026 World Cup
While planning to attend World Cup matches in person, Risto also intends to use the league break to rest and spend time with his family.
However, he assured that he would continue his personal training program to maintain his physical condition ahead of the new season with Persebaya.
“I will enjoy my vacation. Of course, I’ll keep training to stay fit and return in top form for next season,” concluded Risto Mitrevski.
The 2026 World Cup will not only attract football fans worldwide but also serve as a special moment for professional players like Risto Mitrevski, who wish to experience the atmosphere of the world’s biggest tournament firsthand.
