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The excitement surrounding the 2026 FIFA World Cup is not limited to football fans watching from stadiums or television screens. In East Kalimantan, the tournament’s fever has also spread widely among various circles — from government officials and law enforcement to sports communities and media organizations.

The Portugal national team has emerged as one of the most supported squads among notable figures and officials in the region. The legendary name of Cristiano Ronaldo, the team’s balanced depth, and their triumph in the 2025 UEFA Nations League are frequently cited as key reasons why many believe Portugal is capable of winning their first-ever World Cup title.

Support for Portugal comes from diverse backgrounds, including provincial government leaders, police officials, media organization heads, sports figures, and even the Deputy Mayor of Balikpapan — all expressing strong belief in Roberto Martinez’s team.

Here are the prominent East Kalimantan figures backing Portugal for the 2026 World Cup

1. East Kalimantan Kesbangpol Secretary Says Portugal Has a Champion’s Mentality

One of the individuals openly supporting Portugal is Ahmad Firdaus Kurniawan, Secretary of the National Unity and Political Agency (Kesbangpol) of East Kalimantan, based in Samarinda. According to Firdaus, Portugal heads into the 2026 World Cup with a powerful squad built on a balanced mix of senior and young players.

“This year, Portugal has an exceptionally deep squad. There’s a strong and harmonious blend between experienced veterans and energetic young talents performing at their peak,” he said.

Firdaus highlighted that Portugal’s success in winning the 2025 UEFA Nations League proves their winning mentality and ability to perform under pressure. “That Nations League title is clear evidence that this team possesses the mentality of champions. I’m confident Portugal won’t just participate — they’ll truly compete,” he added.

Besides Cristiano Ronaldo, Firdaus pointed out players currently in top form such as Bruno Fernandes, Vitinha, Nuno Mendes, Rafael Leão, and Francisco Conceição, describing them as “on fire.”

Outside football, Firdaus encouraged the public to use the World Cup as a unifying platform. “The World Cup is a universal language. Here in East Kalimantan, we have a diverse society. Let’s use this football moment to strengthen our unity and togetherness,” he said.

2. East Kalimantan Police Narcotics Director: Portugal Stands Out from the Rest

Support for Portugal also came from the Director of Narcotics at the East Kalimantan Regional Police, Commissioner Romylus Tamletahitu, based in Balikpapan. He believes Portugal’s squad depth sets them apart from other nations. “Portugal’s balance between young and senior players is impressive. From goalkeeper to striker, the gap between first and second-choice players is minimal,” Romylus noted.

He added that many teams suffer a drop in quality when substitutes are fielded — a problem Portugal doesn’t face. “Most teams depend heavily on their first eleven. Once the second line comes in, the quality dips. Portugal is different — there’s very little difference between their first and second squads over the last five years,” he explained.

Romylus also praised head coach Roberto Martinez’s deep understanding of his players and acknowledged Cristiano Ronaldo’s enduring influence on Portuguese football.

3. Balikpapan Deputy Mayor Chooses Portugal for Ronaldo

In Balikpapan, Deputy Mayor Bagus Susetyo also voiced his support for Portugal, citing the team’s balance as a key factor. “For me, Portugal has a great chance, but football is always full of surprises, so every team must remain cautious,” he said.

Bagus expressed admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo, noting his ability to stay competitive despite his age. “Even though Ronaldo is older now, he still maintains high standards. That’s what keeps him performing at the top level,” he added.

4. Samarinda Police Officer Predicts Portugal Will Win the World Cup

From Samarinda, Head of Public Relations at Polresta Samarinda, Inspector Arie Soeharyadi, boldly predicted that Portugal will win the 2026 World Cup. “Of course, we support Portugal! They have one of the best squad compositions, especially in midfield, which is currently at its peak,” he said.

Arie emphasized Ronaldo’s importance, not only as a player but also as a role model for leadership. “Portugal has a football icon, lifestyle inspiration, and team leader in CR7. For the final, I predict Portugal versus the Netherlands — and Portugal will lift the trophy,” he declared.

5. Kutai Kartanegara SMSI Chairman Confident Portugal Will Reach the Final

In Tenggarong, Kutai Kartanegara, Chairman of the Indonesian Cyber Media Association (SMSI) Angga Triandi also voiced his confidence in Portugal. “I support Portugal in the 2026 World Cup because their team composition is excellent. They have quality players across all positions,” he said.

Angga also believes Cristiano Ronaldo can still make a difference in major matches. “Even though Ronaldo is older, his experience in big tournaments remains invaluable for Portugal,” he added.

6. Borneo FC Defender Alfharezzi Buffon Backs Portugal to Win the 2026 World Cup

Borneo FC defender Alfharezzi Buffon also placed his bet on Portugal. Ranked fifth in the FIFA standings, Portugal’s victories in Euro 2016 and the UEFA Nations League in both 2019 and 2025 strongly influenced his support.

Ezzi also discussed the official squad announcement by coach Roberto Martinez for the 2026 World Cup. “I’m backing Portugal because I like Ronaldo, who’s leading the team again at 41 — making history as one of the oldest players called up for a World Cup,” he said.

Ezzi assessed that Martinez’s leadership will help Portugal compete strongly in the World Cup hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. They are drawn in Group K alongside Congo, Uzbekistan, and Colombia. “Portugal has an excellent midfield. With players like Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United), Bernardo Silva (Manchester City), Vitinha (Paris Saint-Germain), Joao Neves (Paris Saint-Germain), Ruben Neves (Al Hilal), and Samuel Costa (Mallorca), I think they have a real shot at the final,” he explained.

The 2026 World Cup will run from 11 June to 19 July across North America. Ezzi said he plans to watch the matches with his family in Jakarta while on break from the Super League season. “Hopefully, Portugal will make history and win the World Cup. I’ll be watching every match with my family while enjoying our time together,” he shared.