This article is part of a collaborative effort between major media outlets from the 48 nations that qualified for the 2026 World Cup, as the tournament nears its kickoff on June 11.
Portugal’s Journey to the World Cup
Portugal has made its way to the World Cup for the ninth time, marking their seventh consecutive appearance. Although a home draw against Hungary in October and a loss to Ireland in November slowed their progress, they celebrated their qualification on the final matchday. In that decisive game, Roberto Martínez’s team, playing without Cristiano Ronaldo due to a red card received in Dublin, dominated Armenia with a stunning 9-1 victory.
The squad’s versatility stands out as a significant strength. Martínez cleverly utilizes the tactical flexibility of his team; players like João Neves and Matheus Nunes can seamlessly switch between full-back and midfielder roles, even within the same match. João Cancelo and Diego Dalot are adept on either side, while Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva frequently interchange positions. Despite this adaptability, the coach maintains a stable selection, with at least seven positions in the starting lineup considered “untouchable.” The core of the team includes key players such as Diogo Costa, Rúben Dias, Fernandes, Silva, and Ronaldo, alongside consistent starters like Nuno Mendes and Vitinha.
Portugal: Group K Fixtures
17 June vs DR Congo, Houston (noon local time, 6pm BST, 18 June 3am AEST)
23 June vs Uzbekistan, Houston (noon local time, 6pm BST, 24 June 3am AEST)
27 June vs Colombia, Miami (7:30pm local time, 28 June 0:30am BST, 28 June 9:30am AEST)
“We won ten consecutive matches on the road to Euro 2024, but at that time, the team wasn’t as prepared as it is now. Challenges are essential for growth,” Martínez reflected after securing qualification. “Previously, we lacked the resilience required for title wins. However, during the Nations League, we responded well when Germany and Spain scored, allowing us to win the tournament. This is our current state; we need to prepare thoroughly.”
Martínez emphasizes the importance of his players reflecting the values of the Portuguese people on the pitch, but there is also a personal commitment following the heartbreaking events of 2025. “It’s our responsibility to pursue Diogo’s dream,” the coach stated, acknowledging the impact of the tragic losses of Jota and his brother, André Silva. “He [Jota] embodies our strength and joy. His spirit, resilience, and example will always motivate us.”
The Coach’s Vision
Roberto Martínez nearly departed from his role a year ago, with José Mourinho poised to take over, but his triumph in the Nations League bolstered his position with the newly elected FPF president, Pedro Proença. Despite experiencing his first defeat in a qualifying campaign after an impressive 43 matches, the Spanish coach has successfully guided Portugal to their third World Cup appearance, following two previous stints with Belgium, all with relative ease. Nonetheless, this could mark the end of his tenure with Portugal this summer, even if they achieve success. “The president and I are on the same page: our focus is solely on the World Cup. It’s not about desire; it’s simply a fact. The World Cup waits for no one, but the manager’s future can wait,” he explained in March, adding an element of uncertainty.
Key Player Spotlight
Though it seems unlikely that Cristiano Ronaldo will reach his 1,000th career goal during this World Cup, his proximity to that significant milestone highlights his relentless ambition. At 41 years old, he is set to participate in the tournament for an unprecedented sixth time, with a record of 22 matches and eight goals from previous editions. As a national icon, Ronaldo embodies the aspirations of a country eager to add a World Cup title to their Euro 2016 triumph. His presence continues to attract fans and defenders alike, promising to generate chants, selfies, and memorable moments. “The dream ended,” Ronaldo expressed on social media in 2022 following Portugal’s exit in the quarter-finals against Morocco. Now, four years later, he is determined to pursue “the largest and most ambitious dream” of his career one last time. The end of this extraordinary journey remains shrouded in mystery. “People assume when I talk about retiring soon, it means in six months or a year. I’m just joking!”
Emerging Talent
“Inácio was a backup left-back for the under-23s and under-19s. Some players can surprise you,” remarked Ruben Amorim, the coach who played a crucial role in Gonçalo Inácio’s development at Sporting. Despite his reserved demeanor, the center-back has established himself as a key player and one of the team’s captains. He sheds his shyness with every precise pass, a skill that will be essential for Portugal’s success in the World Cup. Having participated in Euro 2024 and contributing to the previous year’s Nations League victory, he enters the tournament with heightened expectations as the leading candidate to partner Rúben Dias in central defense.
Recognizing Unsung Heroes
Although Diogo Costa may still be working to gain international recognition due to the lower profile of the Portuguese league, he is undeniably a reliable presence in goal. The Porto captain is a fitting successor to Vítor Baía, both for his club and his country. Since becoming Portugal’s No. 1 in 2022, he is heading into his second World Cup. Agile between the posts and skilled with his feet, Costa is also known for his penalty-saving abilities; he famously saved three consecutive penalties against Slovenia in the last 16 of Euro 2024. “Portugal’s secret is Diogo; he is the best-kept secret in European football,” Martínez stated at that time. Costa was equally instrumental in the Nations League final last year, making a pivotal save against a Spanish penalty.
Projected Starting Lineup
Fan Expectations
While attending a World Cup in North America can be costly, the loyalty of Portuguese fans is unwavering. They are expected to show up in significant numbers as the team advances in the tournament. Although they may not always outnumber other supporters, their presence is sure to be felt. Some fans might struggle to set aside club rivalries, even in their choice of attire, but the green and red of the national flag will dominate the scene, often displayed on jerseys emblazoned with Ronaldo’s name. Their support is typically enthusiastic but friendly, characterized by uplifting chants and a hint of humor. Portuguese fans are generally easygoing, peaceful, and leave a positive impression on the host nations.
Political Landscape and Football
Donald Trump elicits mixed feelings in Portugal, mirroring sentiments elsewhere. The utilization of the Lajes air base in the Azores for U.S. military operations remains a contentious political issue. The football federation has attempted to sidestep sensitive discussions surrounding the tournament’s organization, with fans more concerned about the steep costs of tickets and travel. Although Trump rarely addresses Portugal directly, he did host Cristiano Ronaldo at the White House last November during the visit of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
