This article forms part of the collaborative 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, a partnership involving leading media outlets from the 48 nations that qualified. Daily previews will be provided by as the tournament kicks off on June 11.
The Strategy Unveiled
Portugal has successfully qualified for their ninth World Cup, marking their seventh consecutive appearance, achieving this with relative ease despite a home draw against Hungary in October and a loss to Ireland in November that postponed their celebrations until the final matchday. In that decisive game, Roberto Martínez’s squad, missing Cristiano Ronaldo due to a red card in Dublin, delivered a stunning 9-1 victory over Armenia.
Flexibility is the hallmark of this team. Martínez expertly utilizes the tactical adaptability of his players: João Neves and Matheus Nunes can function as either full-backs or midfielders, sometimes even within the same match; João Cancelo and Diego Dalot are adept on both sides; and Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva frequently interchange roles. Despite this adaptability, the coach’s lineup remains consistent, with at least seven positions being considered “untouchable.” The core of the team is solid, featuring key figures like Diogo Costa, Rúben Dias, Fernandes, Silva, and Ronaldo, alongside Nuno Mendes and Vitinha, who also hold guaranteed starting spots.
Portugal: Group K Matches
June 17 vs DR Congo, Houston (noon local, 6pm BST, June 18 3am AEST)
June 23 vs Uzbekistan, Houston (noon local, 6pm BST, June 24 3am AEST)
June 27 vs Colombia, Miami (7:30pm local, June 28 0:30am BST, June 28 9:30am AEST)
“We achieved ten consecutive victories on the path to Euro 2024, but the team wasn’t as equipped back then as it is now. Challenges foster growth,” remarked Martínez after securing qualification. “Previously, we lacked the resilience needed for championship success. In the Nations League, that was different. We responded effectively when Germany and Spain scored, and ultimately, we clinched the trophy. That’s the situation we find ourselves in now. We must prepare thoroughly.”
The head coach emphasizes the need for his squad to embody the values of the Portuguese people while also carrying a personal mission following the tragic events of 2025. “It’s a duty to pursue Diogo’s dream,” the coach stated, referring to the late Jota, whose name he has included in squad announcements since the tragic events. “He [Jota] represents our strength and joy. His spirit, resilience, and example will continue to inspire us.”
The Managerial Insight
Roberto Martínez faced the prospect of departing from the national team a year ago, with José Mourinho poised to take over. However, winning the Nations League solidified his position, garnering support from the new president of the FPF, former international referee Pedro Proença. Despite suffering his first loss in a qualification round after 43 matches, the Spanish coach has successfully led his team to a third World Cup appearance, having previously done so with Belgium, without significant pressure. Nevertheless, this doesn’t guarantee his tenure with Portugal will extend beyond the summer, regardless of outcomes. “The president and I share a vision: our focus is solely on the World Cup. It’s not about whether I want to remain or not; it’s simply not under discussion. The World Cup cannot wait, but the manager’s future is flexible,” he stated in March, leaving room for speculation.
Spotlight on the Star Player
While it’s improbable that Cristiano Ronaldo will mark his 1,000th career goal during this World Cup, his proximity to that milestone underscores the ambition driving him. At 41, he is set to participate in the tournament for an unprecedented sixth time, previously scoring eight goals across 22 matches in earlier editions. As a national icon, the captain embodies the aspirations of a country eager to complement their Euro 2016 triumph with a World Cup title. His presence continues to attract attention from fans and defenders alike, promising moments of inspiration, chants, and social media buzz. “The dream ended,” Ronaldo reflected on social media following Portugal’s quarter-final elimination against Morocco in 2022. Four years later, the forward is back, aiming to tackle “the biggest and most ambitious dream” of his career one last time. As for when this remarkable journey will conclude, no one is willing to wager. “People assume that when I mention retiring soon, it implies 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.” This insight comes from Ruben Amorim, the coach credited with Gonçalo Inácio’s ascent at Sporting. Although he possesses a modest and reserved demeanor, the centre-back has emerged as a crucial figure for his club, even serving as one of its captains. He sheds his shyness with every precise line-breaking pass, a skill that will be essential for Portugal in this World Cup. Having already participated in Euro 2024 and played a role in last year’s Nations League victory, he approaches this tournament with a heightened reputation as the leading candidate to partner Rúben Dias in central defense.
Hidden Gem
Although he may still need to win over fans globally due to the lesser visibility of the Portuguese league, Diogo Costa is a reliable guardian of the net. The Porto captain is a worthy heir to Vítor Baía for both his club and the national team. Since 2022, he has held the title of Portugal’s No. 1 goalkeeper, entering his second World Cup. Agile in goal and skilled with his feet, he is also a specialist in saving penalties; he famously thwarted three consecutive attempts against Slovenia in the Euro 2024 last 16. “Portugal’s secret is Diogo; he’s European football’s best-kept secret,” Martínez stated at the time. Costa was equally pivotal in the Nations League final last year, saving a crucial penalty from Spain.
Potential Starting Lineup
Fan Expectations
While the World Cup in North America comes with a hefty price tag, Portuguese fans are fiercely devoted. They are expected to travel in significant numbers, especially as the tournament progresses. Although they may not always outnumber other supporters, their presence will certainly be noticeable. Some fans might struggle to set aside club rivalries, even in their choice of apparel, yet the green and red of the national flag will dominate, often displayed on jerseys emblazoned with Ronaldo’s name. Their support is typically boisterous yet non-violent, characterized by encouraging chants and a hint of humor. Generally, Portuguese supporters are known for their laid-back demeanor, promoting a peaceful atmosphere and leaving a positive impression on host nations.
U.S. Relations and Trump
Donald Trump elicits mixed reactions in Portugal, just as he does in other places. The utilization of the Lajes air base in the Azores for American military operations remains a contentious political issue. The football federation has sought to steer clear of sensitive discussions regarding the organization of the tournament, with fans concentrating more on the exorbitant costs associated with tickets and travel. Although Trump rarely mentions Portugal directly, he did host Cristiano Ronaldo at the White House in November during a visit from Saudi crown prince Mohammed bin Salman.
