World Cup 2026: Why Samuel Chukwueze is backing Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal to win

Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze has revealed he is supporting Portugal at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with his close friendship with AC Milan teammate Rafael Leão playing a major role, Afrik-Foot reports.

Nigeria failed to qualify for the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico, leaving Chukwueze to watch as a fan instead of taking part. Rather than staying neutral, the 26-year-old has thrown his support behind Portugal because of the strong bond he shares with Leão.

The friendship began in the summer of 2023 when Trabzonspor-linked Chukwueze joined AC Milan from Villarreal. The pair quickly became close both on and off the pitch, with the club building its attack around Leão on the left wing and Chukwueze on the right.

Leão welcomed the Nigerian on Instagram with the message: “Welcome my bro… let’s kill them.” Since then, the Portuguese star has regularly defended Chukwueze during difficult periods, especially when the Nigerian faced criticism from the Italian media. He has also celebrated Chukwueze’s good performances online, often calling him “My boy” to boost his confidence.

Their close relationship has continued into the new season as both players prepare to work under new AC Milan manager Rúben Amorim. Chukwueze has also returned to Milan after spending time on loan at Fulham.

Leão has been one of Portugal’s standout players at the World Cup. He scored in the emphatic 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan before producing another brilliant display in the dramatic 2-1 knockout win over Croatia in Toronto.

The winger played the full match, struck the crossbar in the second half and provided the cross that Gonçalo Ramos headed home in the 94th minute for the winning goal.

After the match, Leão posted on social media:

“All or nothing.”

Chukwueze quickly responded in the comments, writing:

“Now you’re cooking, my brother.”

Leão then replied with a message that delighted fans:

“I never left, my G.”

World Cup: Portugal march on with Ronaldo leading the way

Portugal have reached the Round of 16 after an unbeaten run through their opening four matches. They began with a 1-1 draw against DR Congo before thrashing Uzbekistan 5-0, with Cristiano Ronaldo scoring twice. A goalless draw against Colombia saw them finish second in Group K.

Their biggest test came against Croatia in Toronto. Portugal fell behind early in the second half before Ronaldo calmly converted a penalty to score his first-ever goal in a FIFA World Cup knockout match.

Just when extra time looked certain, Leão delivered a perfect cross in the 94th minute for Gonçalo Ramos to head home the winner. Croatia thought they had forced extra time with a goal in the 103rd minute, but VAR ruled it out for offside.

Portugal’s reward is a blockbuster Round of 16 clash against Iberian rivals Spain in Dallas. With Ronaldo chasing another historic title and Leão playing some of his best football, Chukwueze will be hoping his close friend can help Portugal go all the way and lift the 2026 FIFA World Cup trophy.