Portugal intensified their preparations for the upcoming World Cup with a composed 2-1 win over Chile at the Estádio Nacional in Jamor on 7 June 2026. Head coach Roberto Martinez deployed a strong starting XI, excluding players from Paris Saint-Germain who are still on rest after their Champions League triumph. Cristiano Ronaldo led the attack, supported by Francisco Conceição and Rafael Leão on either side, forming an attacking trio that Martinez will need to fine-tune if Portugal aim to challenge for the title.
José Sá – 5/10
Had very little involvement during his 45 minutes on the pitch but made a poor pass to Rúben Dias in the 30th minute. Unless injuries intervene, he’s unlikely to feature again soon. A disappointing showing overall.
Nélson Semedo – 6.5
Delivered a fine ball to Samú Costa in the 37th minute and worked effectively with Conceição on the right flank during the first half. His pace and dribbling created a few openings. With stiff competition for the right-back position, his role in the US remains uncertain.
Renato Veiga – 6.5
Displayed solid footwork and used his strength well to retain possession. Complemented Dias effectively in defence. Time will tell if this performance secures him a starting spot against the Democratic Republic of Congo on 17 June.
Rúben Dias – 8
Produced a commanding and intelligent performance. Nearly scored in the 4th minute from Cancelo’s cross, forcing a fine save. Recovered brilliantly after Sá’s misplaced pass and made a crucial last-ditch tackle. Added another goal-saving block in the 73rd minute. Calm, strong, and consistent — Dias continues to be Portugal’s defensive rock and possibly their most vital player heading into the World Cup.
João Cancelo – 7.5
The Barcelona full-back had an eventful outing on the left, operating behind Leão and later Pedro Neto. Delivered a dangerous early cross that almost led to a goal, supported Veiga defensively, and produced a clever outside-of-the-boot pass to Costa. Nearly scored with an overhead kick in the 53rd minute. Needs to keep his composure after a heated exchange before halftime. Remains Portugal’s most gifted right-back, though Chile posed little defensive threat.
Samú Costa – 6.5
Tried his luck from distance in the 23rd minute and missed a good chance from Semedo’s cross in the 37th. Held midfield reasonably well and made forward runs in support of the attack. Hardworking but lacked the creative edge to challenge Portugal’s other midfielders for a starting place.
Bruno Fernandes – 7
Had a quiet first half but grew into the game after the break. Sent a precise cross-field ball to Dalot that should have been converted, then scored a fine goal from outside the box. Even when not at full throttle, he remains decisive — a positive sign for Portugal.
Bernardo Silva – 5.5
The former Manchester City midfielder struggled to influence proceedings. Barely noticeable throughout and drifted in and out of play. May find more opportunities on the right wing, though historically he has not dazzled there for Portugal.
Francisco Conceição – 6.5
Showcased pace and flair but lacked physical power. Needs to test goalkeepers more to stand out from competitors. Earned an assist with an intelligent touch to set up Bruno Fernandes for Portugal’s second goal.
Rafael Leão – 5
Frustrating night for the AC Milan forward, who was sent off after retaliating against an opponent. Earlier, he hit the post from a tight angle after being played in by Ronaldo in the 9th minute and repeatedly failed to deliver accurate crosses. His suspension could complicate Portugal’s search for a reliable left winger.
Cristiano Ronaldo – 6
Showed glimpses of quality with a clever backheel to release Leão early on but otherwise struggled to assert dominance. Forced a save after turning inside and shooting with his left foot. Some fans criticised his decision not to pass to a free teammate. Surrounded by creative talent, Ronaldo will have opportunities in this tournament — the question remains whether he can finish them.
Rúben Neves – 6.5
Replaced Costa and immediately made an impact with a fine assist for Gonçalo Guedes’ opener. However, he failed to block Cepeda’s shot that slipped through his legs for Chile’s goal.
Diogo Dalot – 6.5
Made a sharp run to meet Bruno’s cross but couldn’t convert. Got into promising attacking areas multiple times. Currently neck and neck with Semedo and Cancelo for the starting right-back spot.
Gonçalo Guedes – 7
Answered critics of Martinez’s selection by scoring shortly after coming on. With Leão, Neto, and Conceição struggling for form, Guedes might just force his way into the lineup.
Rui Silva – 5.5
Charged out unsuccessfully to intercept a counterattack in the 62nd minute, but Cancelo cleared the danger. Made a good save in stoppage time and handled a deflected effort in the 83rd minute. Could do little about the late Chilean goal.
Gonçalo Inácio – 6
Allowed his marker too much space in the 64th minute to receive a cross. Very little separates him and Veiga for the starting centre-back position, though Veiga looked sharper this time.
Pedro Neto – 6
Introduced at halftime, he immediately showed aggression and willingness to take on defenders. Worked hard but lacked end product, missing the target in the 82nd minute after Dalot’s pass.
João Félix – not rated
Tomás Araújo – not rated
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