One of the tournament favourites, Portugal, are still chasing their first victory as they prepare to face Uzbekistan in the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Roberto Martinez’s men were held to a surprising 1-1 draw by the Democratic Republic of Congo in their opening match, with Yoane Wissa equalising for the African side in first-half stoppage time.
Joao Neves had given Portugal an early lead with a well-placed header in the sixth minute. The midfielder is expected to play a key role once again against Uzbekistan, forming part of what many are calling the best midfield trio of the tournament.
Neves will partner his Paris Saint-Germain teammate Vitinha in midfield, while Manchester United captain and Premier League Player of the Season Bruno Fernandes operates ahead of them in the No.10 role.
Much of the discussion continues to revolve around Cristiano Ronaldo, who, at 41 years old, became the oldest outfield player in World Cup history during the draw with DR Congo.
The veteran forward is set to lead the line once again. It remains to be seen whether Martinez will persist with Bernardo Silva on the right wing and Pedro Neto on the left, or introduce AC Milan winger Rafael Leao to add more attacking threat. Should Leao start, PSG full-back Nuno Mendes is likely to provide support from the left flank with his overlapping runs.
On the opposite side, Barcelona defender Joao Cancelo switched to left-back when Nelson Semedo replaced Mendes against DR Congo, highlighting Martinez’s flexibility in defence.
Goalkeeper Diogo Costa remains the undisputed first-choice between the posts. However, there was a slight surprise in central defence during the opener. Ruben Dias was deemed unfit to start, leading to Tomas Araujo and Renato Veiga being selected ahead of highly-rated youngsters Antonio Silva and Goncalo Inacio.
Predicted Portugal XI (4-2-3-1): Diogo Costa; Joao Cancelo, Tomas Araujo, Renato Veiga, Nuno Mendes; Vitinha, Joao Neves; Bernardo Silva, Bruno Fernandes, Rafael Leao; Cristiano Ronaldo.
Date and Time: 6 PM BST, Tuesday, June 23, 2026.
Venue: NRG Stadium, Houston, Texas.
How to Watch: ITV.
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