Portugal, one of the pre-tournament favourites, continue their hunt for a first victory at the 2026 FIFA World Cup as they prepare to face Uzbekistan.
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 netting an equaliser for the African side during first-half stoppage time.
Joao Neves had earlier given Portugal the lead with a fine header in the sixth minute, and the midfielder is expected to play a key role again against Uzbekistan. He will form part of what many are calling the most dynamic midfield trio of the tournament.
Neves will partner his Paris Saint-Germain teammate Vitinha, while Manchester United captain and Premier League Player of the Season Bruno Fernandes will operate just ahead of them in the No.10 role.
There remains ongoing discussion regarding veteran forward Cristiano Ronaldo, who against DR Congo became the oldest outfield player to appear at a World Cup at 41 years old.
The legendary striker is set to lead the line once more, and Martinez must decide whether to stick with Bernardo Silva on the right and Pedro Neto on the left, or to make adjustments for greater attacking balance.
AC Milan’s Rafael Leao could be handed a start on the left flank to add more cutting edge in front of goal, with PSG full-back Nuno Mendes likely to provide width by overlapping from behind.
On the opposite side, Barcelona’s Joao Cancelo shifted to left-back when Nelson Semedo replaced Mendes in the previous fixture against DR Congo, showcasing Martinez’s tactical flexibility in the full-back positions.
Diogo Costa remains the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper, though there were some surprises in central defence during the opening match.
Ruben Dias was not deemed fit enough to start, leading to Tomas Araujo and Renato Veiga being preferred over the highly-rated Antonio Silva and Goncalo Inacio.
Predicted Portugal Starting XI (4-2-3-1): Costa; Cancelo, Araujo, Veiga, Mendes; Vitinha, Neves; Silva, Fernandes, Leao; Ronaldo
Match Date and Time: 6pm BST, Tuesday, June 23, 2026
Venue: NRG Stadium, Houston, Texas
-
Eloy Room: The Curacao Goalkeeper Who Made World Cup History with 15 Saves
-
Former Manchester United striker Mark Hughes 'heartbroken' over the tragic passing of his son Alex
-
Australia Remain Unbeaten in Women's T20 World Cup Despite Beth Mooney Injury Scare
-
Starmer Under Pressure? UK Minister Admits Challenges To PM's Leadership
-
'There Is Only One Shiv Sena': Uddhav Thackeray Counters Amit Shah
