This article is part of the 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, a collaboration among top media organizations from the 48 nations that qualified. Previews are being published daily as the tournament approaches, set to commence on June 11.
Portugal’s Path to Qualification
Portugal achieved their ninth World Cup appearance, and their seventh consecutive one, with relative ease despite some setbacks. A home draw against Hungary in October and a defeat in Ireland that November postponed their celebrations until the final matchday. In that decisive game, Roberto Martínez’s squad, missing Cristiano Ronaldo due to a red card incurred in Dublin, overwhelmed Armenia with a stunning 9-1 victory.
Diversity is a defining characteristic of this team. Martínez effectively utilizes the tactical flexibility of his players. João Neves and Matheus Nunes can switch between full-back and midfielder roles, while João Cancelo and Diogo Dalot are comfortable on either flank. Meanwhile, Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva frequently rotate positions. Despite this adaptability, the starting lineup remains stable, with at least seven positions considered “We won 10 games in a row on the road to Euro 2024, but the team wasn’t as prepared then as it is now. Challenges help you grow,” Key figures such as Diogo Costa, Rúben Dias, Fernandes, Silva, Ronaldo, Nuno Mendes, and Vitinha are integral to the team.
“Back then, we lacked the resilience needed to win titles. In the Nations League, it was different. We reacted when Germany scored, when Spain scored, and we won the tournament. That is where we are now. We must prepare well.” Martínez remarked post-qualification. “It is a responsibility to fight for Diogo’s dream,”
The head coach emphasizes the importance of embodying the values of the Portuguese people on the pitch. This time, however, there’s a more personal mission following the tragic events of 2025. “He [Jota] is our strength and our joy. His spirit, his strength and his example are the driving force, and they always will be.” he says, referring to the late Diogo Jota, whose name he includes in squad announcements. “The president and I are aligned: the focus is the World Cup. It’s not a matter of wanting or not wanting; it’s not on the table. The World Cup cannot wait, but the manager’s situation can,”
Coaching Leadership
Roberto Martínez was on the brink of leaving the national team a year ago, with José Mourinho poised to take over, but securing the Nations League title gave him a boost of confidence from the new president of the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF), Pedro Proença. Although he faced his first qualifying defeat after an impressive 43 matches, the Spanish coach has successfully guided the team to his third World Cup, having previously led Belgium twice, without much stress. However, this does not guarantee the continuation of his tenure post-tournament. “the biggest and most ambitious dream” he stated in March, maintaining an air of uncertainty.
Key Player
While it appears unlikely that Cristiano Ronaldo will celebrate his 1,000th career goal during this World Cup, his proximity to this milestone underscores his relentless ambition. At 41, he is set to compete in the tournament for a record sixth time, having previously played 22 matches and scored eight goals in earlier editions. A national icon, the captain embodies the aspirations of a country eager to add a World Cup trophy to their Euro 2016 title. He continues to draw attention from fans and defenders alike, destined to create memorable moments. “People think when I talk about retiring soon, it means in six months or a year. I’m joking!” Ronaldo expressed on social media in 2022 after Portugal’s quarter-final exit against Morocco. Now, four years later, he returns to pursue “Inácio was a backup left-back for the under-23s and under-19s. Some players can surprise you.” of his career one last time. “Portugal’s secret is Diogo; he is European football’s best-kept secret,”
Player to Watch
“Inácio was a backup left-back for the under-23s and under-19s. Some players can surprise you,”
said Ruben Amorim, who has played a crucial role in Gonçalo Inácio’s development at Sporting. The center-back, known for his quiet demeanor, has emerged as a key figure for his club and serves as one of its captains. He is shedding his shyness with each impressive line-breaking pass, a skill that will be essential for Portugal in this World Cup. Having already participated in Euro 2024 and contributed to last year’s Nations League victory, Inácio enters the tournament as a strong candidate to partner Rúben Dias in the center of defense.
Unsung Hero
Although he may still need to win over fans globally due to the lower profile of the Portuguese league, Diogo Costa is a reliable presence in goal. The captain of Porto, he is a worthy successor to Vítor Baía for both club and country. Since 2022, he has been Portugal’s first-choice goalkeeper and is gearing up for his second World Cup. Agile between the posts and adept with his feet, he also excels at saving penalties; he famously stopped three consecutive penalties against Slovenia in the Euro 2024 last 16. “Portugal’s secret is Diogo; he is European football’s best-kept secret,” Martínez noted at the time. Costa was also pivotal in the Nations League final last year, where he saved a crucial penalty against Spain.
Projected Starting Lineup
Anticipating Fan Engagement
Despite the high costs associated with a World Cup in North America, Portuguese fans are known for their fierce loyalty. They will show up in large numbers, particularly as the team progresses. While they may not always outnumber other supporters in the stands, their presence is unmistakable. Some fans may struggle to set aside club rivalries in their choices of attire, but the green and red of the national flag predominates, often displayed on jerseys featuring Ronaldo’s name. Their support is loud but generally non-aggressive, marked by encouraging chants and humor. Portuguese fans are typically laid-back, peaceful, and leave a positive impression on host nations.
Political Context
Donald Trump evokes mixed feelings in Portugal, much like elsewhere. The utilization of the Lajes air base in the Azores for American military purposes remains a contentious political issue. The football federation has opted to steer clear of sensitive discussions surrounding the tournament’s organization, as fans are more focused on the soaring costs of tickets and travel. While Trump seldom addresses Portugal directly, he did host Cristiano Ronaldo at the White House in November during a visit from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
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